The Best Walk Behind String Trimmer

A wheeled walk behind trimmer is similar in appearance to a lawn mower. The main difference in appearance is that a walk behind trimmer has rear wheels only and no front wheels. Walk behind trimmers are perfect for the rugged terrain that a standard lawn mower cannot handle. Here are our top 15 picks for the best walk behind string trimmers of 2020.

At a Glance: The Best Walk Behind String Trimmer Discussed in Our Roundup:

• Southland SWFT15022 Field Trimmer (Top Pick)
• Remington 25A-26J7783 High Wheel Trimmer (Top Rated)
• EARTHQUAKE 28463 M205 Trimmer (Editor Choice)
• SuperHandy String Trimmer
• Southland SWSTM4317 String Trimmer

Top 15 Walk Behind String Trimmers

Walk behind string trimmers are becoming more popular. They are easier to maneuver than hand-held trimmers and can trim more lawn area in less time. With so many trimmers available, it is difficult to know which trimmer is right for your needs. We are sharing reviews below of our favorite walk behind string trimmers to help you with your decision.

1. Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SWFT15022 150cc Field Trimmer

This trimmer is powered with a 150cc 5.75 foot-pound torque engine. It has a manual recoil east start fuel delivery system to make this one of the easiest trimmers to start. The 12-inch high rear wheels give you increased maneuverability through tough terrain.

The trimmer mechanism uses four trimmer line sets. You get a wide 22-inch cutting path when using this trimmer. This gives you a wide cutting area which will reduce the overall time needed while trimming your yard.

The anti-vibration foam comfort grip handle folds down easily for compact storage. This is an economic choice to meet your walk behind trimmer needs.

Highlights of this trimmer:

• 150cc 5.75 foot-pound torque engine
• Uses a 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line
• 22-inch cutting path
• Anti-vibration foam grip handle
• 12-inch high wheels
• 2-year limited warranty

2. Remington 25A-26J7783 22-Inch High Wheel Trimmer

This Remington walk behind trimmer is powered by a 159cc MTD Powermore 4-cycle OHV (overhead valve) engine. It has a cast-iron cylinder sleeve, forged steel crankshaft, and ball bearings for longer performance. This walk behind string trimmer is ideal for large property owners.

A folding comfort handle gives you flexibility to store the trimmer in a compact area when it is not in use. Designed with a 22-inch cutting path, this trimmer uses a standard 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line. It has an offset trimmer head feature which helps you reach the hard-to-reach places in your yard.

The Remington trimmer has one of the widest cutting height ranges compared to the other trimmers we reviewed. You can adjust the cutting height from 1-inch tall up to 6-inches tall!

A trimmer guard protects you from flying debris while you are using the walk behind string trimmer. The 14-inch high ball-bearing wheels make it easy to maneuver through rough terrain. Remington backs this trimmer with a 2-year limited warranty.

Highlights of this trimmer:

• 159cc MTD Powermore 4-cycle OHV engine
• Folding handle for storage
• 22-inch cutting path
• Uses a 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line
• Offset trimmer head
• 14-inch high wheels
• 2-year limited warranty

3. EARTHQUAKE 28463 M205 Trimmer

Whether you have a large property or a small one, the Earthquake 28463 is one of the best options that you can find.

First of all, it has a powerful engine, a 150cc engine that will help to trim whatever lies in its way. You can use the product to mow, trim, cut bush and weeds, and so much more.

Another advantage of this model is that you will complete your job in a short time. The cutting swath of 22″ makes for fast performance. The product also has a lightweight design and large wheels that climb over different surfaces.

Overall, this is the heavy-duty choice that will serve all your trimming needs.

Highlights of this Trimmer

• 150 cc Engine
• 22” cutting swath
• Offset Trimmer head
• Folding handle

4. SuperHandy String Trimmer

If you are looking for an eco-friendly model that manages to still give you more-than-decent performance, then you will enjoy the SuperHandy String Trimmer.

The product is the lightest on this list which does loads for maneuverability. Under the hood is a CARB-compliant 79cc 2-stroke engine that delivers decent power. The cutting diameter of 21″ means you can use the appliance in a large to medium-sized yard.

Since it is a very compact model, the SuperHandy String Trimmer is suited for anyone with limited storage space. You also get safety features like the low oil sensor that shuts the engine when the oil reaches a dangerous level.

Highlights of this Trimmer

• 79cc 2-stroke engine
• Low oil sensor
• 21” cutting diameter
• CARB-compliant engine

5. Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SWSTM4317 String Trimmer

One string strimmer that I like is the Southland Outdoor Power Equipment SWSTM4317, and it features 20-30 degrees trimmer head swivel. That head comes in handy to allow it to trim your fence and along your walls in a straight line.

I also love its 5-10 degrees trimmer head bevel that provides precise edge cutting along obstacles. It also offers over 35% more torque compared to a standard 25cc handheld string trimmer.

You also get a multi-streaming trimmer head that accepts 0.095 to 0.105 inches to let you select a string that matches your needs. The other feature I like is the onboard trimmer string storage that keeps extra strings for easy reach.

The model is also CARB and EPA compliant.

Highlights of this Trimmer:

• Heavy-duty 12” ball bearing wheels 
• Trimmer head accepts 0.095 to 0.105 inches strings
• Cuts up to 17 inches 
• 20-30 degrees trimmer head swivel
• 5-10 degrees trimmer head bevel 
• 35% more torque 
• Ergonomic loop handle 
• CARB and EPA compliant

6. TAZZ One-Piece Steel Deck

Up next is the TAXX string trimmer. Although this model is not the most powerful on this roundup, as it cannot cut through the thickest of brush, the product is still powerful enough to eliminate any stubborn weeds and tall grasses in your garden. The engine is a gas-powered 150cc 4-cycle engine that offers durable performance.

The model has a 22″ cutting swath, similar to some of the best models on this roundup. Due to this size, the model is a good choice for anyone looking to get rid of grass without paying plenty of money.

This walk behind string trimmer is also lightweight and boasts of sturdy wheels that improve the ability to maneuver over different terrains.

Highlights of the Trimmer

• 22” cutting swath
• 4-cycle engine
• Ergonomic handle
• Heavy-duty wheels

7. Billy Goat BC2600HEBH

The penultimate model on our list of the best walk behind string trimmer is the Billy Goat BC2600HEBH. This model might not look like much, but don’t be fooled by the simple design and appearance; it packs quite a punch.

For one, this machine is powered by a 13 HP Honda engine that offers plenty of power form most of your trimming needs. This engine is pretty easy to start. Unlike some others that have a recoil start system, this unit has an electric start. Therefore, you don’t have any worries about starting the machine. This makes it handy for the elderly and anyone without plenty of strength.

Another advantage is the convenient controls for forward and reverse. The wheels offer excellent traction and can be used on level, hilly, or rocky terrains.

Overall, the Billy Goat BC2600HEBH is built for convenience and comfort while cutting through grasses of different heights.

Highlights of this Trimmer

• Electric Start
• Traction Control
• 13 HP Honda Engine
• Convenient Controls
• 26” wide deck

8. Swisher WB11524BS Predator

The next option on this review is the excellent walk behind string trimmer from the Swisher brand. Although the brand is not as popular as some of those we have considered so far, it offers high-quality outdoor equipment, with the Swisher WB11524BS Predator no exception.

First, there is a powerful 11.5 HP Briggs and Stratton engine in the unit. This engine will offer enough power to propel the trimmer and eliminate most of the high grass in the yard.

This unit is also a self-propelled option which makes for easy use over different terrains. With the 4-speed transmission and reverse feature, you can use this model without having to over-exert yourself in pushing it.

Another cool thing is the 24″ cutting diameter to take care of different sized lawns in a short time.

Highlights of this Trimmer

• Self-propelled
• 4-speed transmission
• 11.5 HP Briggs & Stratton Engine
• 24” cutting diameter

9. Husqvarna HU675HWT 163cc Briggs & Stratton 22-Inch High Wheel Trimmer

The engine on this Husqvarna trimmer is a 163cc 675EXi series Briggs and Stratton with a net power of 3000 rpm. It has a push drive system and offers a cutting range height from 1.6-inches to 3-inches. It uses a standard 0.155-inch diameter rotating trimmer line.

The rear wheels on this trimmer are 12-inch high wheels which gives you enough power and control for any rough terrain. The 22-inch cutting path allows you to cover a large area of your yard in a small amount of time.

Husqvarna offers a 2-year limited warranty on this product which makes it a great choice to address all of your yard trimming needs.

Highlights of this trimmer:

• 163cc 675EXi series Briggs and Stratton engine
• Push drive system
• Uses a 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line
• 22-inch cutting path
• Cutting height range from 1.6-inches to 3-inches
• Throttle control
• Handle height adjustment
• 12-inch high wheels
• 2-year limited warranty

10. Billy Goat BC2600HEBH 26-Inc Outback Brush Mower

Billy Goat BC2600HEBH is a model that comes with improved traction control that enables it to climb hills with ease. It also has a 26” wide deck that makes it a more effective mower compared to other units out there.

I also love its tip speed that provides better speed as well as improved cutting quality. You also get to enjoy forward and reverse without any hassle as they are conveniently located at your fingertips.

The unit uses 13 HP Honda engine and is electric start. It is also one of the most durable models that you can get on the market today.

Highlights of this Mower:

• 26” wide deck
• 13 HP Honda engine
• Enhanced traction control
• Electric start 
• Forward and reverse controls are conveniently located 

11. Husqvarna HU625HWT 163cc 22-Inch High Wheel Trimmer

Husqvarna powers this trimmer with a 163cc Briggs and Stratton 625 series engine. It has a preset net power of 3000 rpm (rotations per minute). This trimmer has a push drive system with large 12-inch high wheels.

This trimmer uses a rotating trimmer line and can trim a 22-inch path in your yard. You can adjust the trim height from a minimum cutting height of 1.6-inches to a maximum height of 3-inches.

The handle height adjustment features allows you to fit the trimmer to your individual ergonomic preference. The throttle control near the handle bar gives you the control you need to adjust the power based on the area being trimmed. This trimmer has an auto choke feature that eliminates the need for manual priming or choking. This makes startups for this trimmer fast and easy.

Highlights of this trimmer:

• 163cc 625 series Briggs and Stratton engine
• Push drive system
• 22-inch cutting path
• Cutting height range from 1.6-inches to 3-inches
• Throttle control
• Handle height adjustment
• 12-inch high wheels

12. Cub Cadet 22-Inch 159cc Gas Walk Behind String Trimmer

This Cub Cadet walk behind string trimmer offers a wide 22-inch cutting path. It has five adjustable cut height settings ranging from 1.75-inches up to 4-inches. This gives you flexibility for all of your trimming needs.

The 159cc Cub Cadet OHV Engine gives this trimmer enough power to handle even the toughest jobs. With an auto choke system, it eliminates the need to prime the engine before starting it.

This trimmer has a debris shield on the deck to protect you from flying debris while you are trimming your lawn. The unique deck design allows you to trim right up to the edge of any fencing or building so you can reach all areas of your yard.

The 14-inch high ball-bearing wheels allow you to maneuver this trimmer through tough terrain. The handle folds easily for compact storage after use. With a full 3-year limited warranty, including the engine, this Cub Cadet walk behind trimmer is one of my favorite choices.

Highlights of this trimmer:

• 159cc Cub Cadet OHV engine
• Auto choke feature
• Uses a 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line
• 22-inch cutting path
• Adjustable trim heights from 1.75-inches to 4-inches
• Folding handle
• 14-inch high wheels
• 3-year limited warranty

13. Swisher ST67522BS Standard String Trimmer

This Swisher product has a 6.75 gross torque Briggs and Stratton EXI engine. The engine on this trimmer has an auto choke feature that eliminates the need to prime the engine before starting it.

This engine has a unique check and add oil feature which makes lawn mower and trimmer oil maintenance easier than ever. This engine requires that you check the oil periodically and add new oil if it is running low. Briggs and Stratton claims the EXI series engines will never need an oil change!

It has an extra-wide 22-inch cutting path and uses a standard 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line. The 13.75-inch high wheels give this trimmer the flexibility to navigate through any rough terrain area. If you are looking for a practical and economical walk behind trimmer choice, then consider this Swisher trimmer.

Highlights of this trimmer:

• 75 gross torque Briggs and Stratton EXI engine
• Uses a 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line
• 22-inch cutting path
• No oil changes needed
• Folding handle
• 75-inch high wheels

14. Swisher WBRC11524 Predator Walk Behind Rough Cut Mower

Swisher WBRC11524 Predator is a robust model that acts as a bush mower and can last for years without getting damaged. I wound recommended it to all mowers, but you need to note that it is quite expensive.

Although the price is high, it is the ideal model for dealing with rough jobs without showing any sign of damage. I also noted that it is a heavy model, but you don’t need to worry because it self-drives without your effort. 

It has a capable 11.5HP engine that can drive all its gears in any condition. Another feature I love is the adjustable handlebar that makes it easy to control. 

Highlights of this Mower:

• 24” self-propelled walk-behind 
• 11.5 HP Briggs & Stratton recoil start the engine
• 4-speed transmission 
• 1¾” cutting height range 

15. Ariens Company 946154 22-Inch Walk Behind Trimmer

This Ariens trimmer features a 173cc Kohler XT-7 series 4-cycle OHV engine. An auto choke feature eliminates the need to prime the engine before starting it. The engine has cast-iron cylinder liners for extra durability.

The trimmer has a 22-inch cutting path and uses four cutting strings. It has cutting height adjustments ranging from 1.25-inches to 4.25-inches. The folding handle allows you to store the trimmer in compact spaces when it is not in use. 14-inch high run flat wheels give you the flexibility to trim areas of your yard covered in rough terrain.

Highlights of this trimmer:

• 173cc Kohler XT-7 series 4-cycle OHV engine
• Uses a 0.155-inch diameter trimmer line
• 22-inch cutting path
• Adjustable trim heights from 1.25-inches to 4.25-inches
• Folding handle
• 14-inch high wheels
• 3-year warranty

Walk Behind String Trimmer Features

There are many features you should consider before deciding which walk behind string trimmer is best for your situation. We are providing you with some guidelines below to help you make an informed decision on which trimmer is the best.

Hand-held String Trimmer  Versus Wheeled String Trimmer

A hand-held string trimmer, also known as a weed wacker, is perfect for smaller areas where tall grass is hard to reach with a regular lawn mower. A hand-held trimmer is not practical for large amounts of space, however.

This is where a wheeled string trimmer comes into the picture. Some areas of land are difficult to reach with a lawn mower or lawn tractor. Wheeled trimmers give you more flexibility to cover large, hard to reach spaces. The wheels give you the ability to maneuver across rough terrain and can trim down weeds that are extremely tall.

Engines

Engine size is an important consideration, especially if you need more power to cut through an expansive area of tall weeds and brush. Most walk behind string trimmers have a 4-stroke or 4-cycle engine. They need oil changes and basic maintenance to keep them in good operating condition.

Briggs and Stratton makes an engine they claim requires no oil changes. If you are not a mechanically inclined individual, then you will want to consider an engine that needs little maintenance.

Most wheeled string trimmers have engines that come with a recoil starter that has to be started by a starter rope. This turns the engine over and gets it started. It is best to find a wheeled string trimmer that includes an auto choke feature which eliminates the need to prime the engine ahead of time.

Wheel Size

The wheels on walk behind string trimmers are made of hard plastic or Never Flat material, which means it is not likely you will need to handle a flat tire. Walk behind string trimmers that have larger wheels can maneuver over rougher terrain. For maximum flexibility, you want to find a wheeled string trimmer that has wheels at least 12-inches high.

Handle Grip Bar

When using your walk behind string trimmer, you want to be as comfortable as possible. As you maneuver the trimmer, you may go over potentially rough terrain. Since most walk behind string trimmers have push drive engines, you want the handle grip bar of the trimmer to be at the right height and angle to minimize strain on your back while pushing.

Be sure the trimmer you choose has an adjustable handle height. The handle should also fold down for compactness while you store it and it is not in use..

Finally, you want a wheeled string trimmer that has an anti-vibration feature. This will reduce the tingling in your hands, arms, and shoulders after you have finished using the trimmer.

Cutting Width and Height

Most walk behind string trimmers have a 22-inch wide cutting path. This allows you to cover a large area of grass in a matter of hours instead of days.

You should consider a cut height adjustment feature when choosing a walk behind trimmer. This allows you to adjust the height of the remaining grass or weeds left behind after you trim the area. If you need to leave a few inches of grass or weeds standing after you trim, be sure the trimmer you are interested in buying has an adjusting cut height feature that will accommodate the height you need.

FAQs

Q: Can I Mow Right After Aeration?

A: Do not mow your lawn right after aeration – stay for about seven days. Also, note where all the pop-ups and sprinklers are to avoid damaging them and water the soil before aeration. 

Q: How Often Should Lawn be Aerated?

A: You should aerate your lawn at least twice per year to ensure that you get a healthy lawn. That is especially important if your yard has thatch buildup and compacted soil.

Q: Why is My Lawn Lumpy?

A: Even a beautiful, green lawn can turn lumpy or bumpy and uneven. Earthworms, weeds, freezing, and thawing condition can all contribute to this condition.

Set your mower to cut the grass short to find out those bumpy areas with ease. That way, you can make the necessary changes. 

Q: How to string a walk behind trimmer

A: Stringing the walk behind the trimmer is easy. All that is required is to add the cutting line pieces. Put the end of the line into the smaller hole, pushing the line inside the holes until they come out of the center hole. Then pull the line until the ends are even.

Q: Are walk behind string trimmers worth it?

A: Yes, they are! These machines do an excellent job of helping to keep tall, short, medium-length grasses, thick brushes, and other vegetation growth in check. They are often affordable, durable, and powerful units.

It’s great to decide what is the best walk behind string trimmer and own one immediately to see its excellent performance. 

Conclusion

After reading our product reviews and guidelines, you should have enough information to make a well-informed decision on a walk behind string trimmer. Remember to consider the area you will be trimming. Select a trimmer with the right engine power, maintenance needs, cutting height adjustment range, wheel size and overall comfort. You will be able to select the right option to fit your specific needs.