(checked 2026-10-10)
A light (about 5.5-6 lb), very adjustable trimmer that converts to an edger and mini mower, picked by Wirecutter, Bob Vila and Popular Mechanics for small lawns. It's weak in thick weeds, gives about 20 minutes per battery, and uses proprietary spools.
In the box: Yes: 2 x 20V 2.0Ah batteries and charger in the WG170 kit (Amazon listing title; Bob Vila)
Top complaints
- Weak in thick weeds
Wirecutter says it struggled with thicker, stalky weeds and is 'nowhere near as powerful' as its full-size picks. Bob Vila found it less effective on overgrown grass and coarse weeds. Power is mixed on Amazon.
- Short runtime and battery complaints
About 20 minutes per 2.0Ah battery in Wirecutter's test; Bob Vila lists limited runtime and long recharges as cons. Amazon owners report slow charging and batteries that fail.
- Mixed durability, proprietary spools
Durability is mixed on Amazon: some units last two years, others fall apart within two months. It uses proprietary pre-loaded spools that may be hard to find (Wirecutter).
What owners love
- Light and very adjustable
5.5 lb (Bob Vila) to 6.19 lb (Popular Mechanics). Wirecutter says the pivoting head, telescoping shaft and pivoting handle let a 6-foot-5 tester stand straight. Weight is an Amazon positive.
- Trimmer, edger and mini mower
Removable wheels convert it to an edger or small mower. Both Wirecutter and Popular Mechanics found the edger works well, though mower mode gives uneven results.
- Quiet, quick line handling, good value
Quieter than its light-duty rivals (Wirecutter). Spools drop in quickly and Popular Mechanics' kit came with two extras. Amazon owners call it well worth the money.
- You have thick weeds or overgrowth
- You need long sessions
- You don't want to buy proprietary spools
- Small lawns and light trimming
- Users who want a light, adjustable trimmer
- Edging walkways (wheeled edger mode)
Scores (tap for why)
What experts say
- Wirecutter (NYT): Best for small lawns: great ergonomics, quiet and light, but not for thick weeds or long sessions, and it uses proprietary spools.
- Popular Mechanics (best string trimmers): Best budget trimmer for small yards: light, compact, three modes and extra spools included; single speed.
- Bob Vila (best string trimmers): Best lightweight: very light and budget-friendly with a spare battery, but limited runtime and weak on coarse weeds.