You walk out to admire your lawn. From a distance it looks fine. But up close, the edges along the driveway and sidewalk are ragged. Grass spills over onto the concrete. Flower beds look sloppy. That crisp, manicured look you want? It starts with clean lines. A good electric trimmer and edger can get you there without the noise and hassle of gas equipment.
Electric models have come a long way. You can choose between corded (constant power, limited range) and cordless (freedom to roam, but battery life matters). Key features like cutting width, weight, adjustable depth, and ease of conversion from trimmer to edger separate the great from the mediocre. Some focus on pure edging with a metal blade, others do double duty as string trimmers. The right pick depends on your yard size, terrain, and how much maintenance you want to do.
I narrowed down the field to five. Each solves a specific problem. The Maxlander delivers precise edging with a 9-inch blade. The BLACK+DECKER digs trenches too. The BeautFirst combines trimmer, edger, and mower at a low price. WORX offers easy line feed and a tilting head. Greenworks brings gas-like power to cordless. Below a quick comparison table, then deep dives into each one.
Here is a side-by-side look at the key specs that matter most.
| Features | Maxlander 9″ Edger | BLACK+DECKER Edger | BeautFirst 12″ Trimmer | WORX Cordless Trimmer | Greenworks 80V Edger |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Power Source | 4.0Ah battery included | Corded 12 Amp | 2×5.0Ah batteries | 2x20V batteries | 80V (tool only) |
| Cutting Width | 9 inches (blade) | 7.5 inches (blade) | 12 inches (string) | 12 inches (string) | 8 inches (blade) |
| Weight | 8.8 lbs | ~12 lbs (corded) | ~7 lbs | 5.5 lbs | 10.3 lbs base |
| Special Feature | 3-position blade depth | 2-in-1 edger and trencher | Trimmer/edger/mower mode | Push-button line feed | 5-position deep cut |
| Best Use Case | Pure edge, sidewalks | Edging + trench digging | Budget small yard | Versatile trimming & edging | High-power cordless edging |
Maxlander 9” Lawn Edger
MAXLANDER
Maxlander 9'' Lawn Edger, 3-Position Blade Depth, 4.0Ah Battery & Charger
- EXPERT EDGING FOR A WELL-KEPT LANDSCAPE: This versatile lawn edger expertly defines crisp borders, maintaining precise driveway an…
- POWERFUL & EFFICIENT PERFORMANCE: A high-performance electric edger powered by a powerful motor that can reach 3200 RPM, provides…
- THREE-LEVEL DEPTH ADJUSTABLE CONTROL: To accommodate different lawn heights, the blades can be adjusted through the control button…
The one you buy for sharp, clean edges without arm strain.
This is a dedicated edger. It does not convert into a string trimmer. What it does, it does well: cutting a precise border along driveways, sidewalks, and garden beds. The 9-inch metal blade spins at 3200 RPM and chews through grass and roots. The three-level depth adjustment lets you match the cut to your lawn height. At 8.8 pounds, it is one of the lightest edgers with a decent battery. You can work for an hour without your forearm feeling like it is on fire.
The battery and charger come in the box. That is a nice bonus—no extra purchase needed. The blade depth adjusts with a simple button, and the balancing wheel helps you keep the cut straight. I found it handled Bermuda and St. Augustine lawns easily. The crisp lines it leaves behind make the whole yard look better instantly.
There are trade-offs. No string trimmer function means you still need a separate tool for tall grass around fences and trees. The battery is 4.0Ah, good for about 30-40 minutes of edging depending on soil condition. And if your yard has thick clay or heavy roots, the blade can bog down. But for routine edge maintenance, it is a pleasure to use.
- 9-inch steel blade, 3200 RPM
- 3-position depth adjustment + balance wheel
- 4.0Ah battery and charger included
- Weighs 8.8 lbs, ergonomic grip
- Compatible with common grass types
Best for: Homeowners who want a lightweight, dedicated edger with included battery for precise borders.
BLACK+DECKER Lawn Edger T
BLACK+DECKER
BLACK+DECKER Lawn Edger Trencher 2 in 1, 12 Amp 7.5 in. Electric Edger Lawn Tool for Landscaping and Trench Digger, 3 Height Settings, Corded (LE760FF)
- Versatile Edging Performance: The grass edger is ideal for creating sharp borders along driveways, sidewalks, patios, and hardscap…
- Efficient Trenching: Use this trenching tool to dig shallow trenches for cable, wire, irrigation lines, garden beds, and fencing i…
- Clean Edging Results: Achieve precise edges along grass and hard surfaces for a polished look with your yard edger
The one that also digs trenches for cables and irrigation.
BLACK+DECKER’s LE760FF is a corded electric edger with a trick up its sleeve. Flip a lever, and it becomes a trencher. You can dig shallow channels for wire, drip lines, or garden edging. That extra capability makes it more than a lawn tool—it is a small landscaping assistant. The 12-amp motor provides consistent torque, so it keeps cutting even when you hit packed soil or roots.
The 7.5-inch blade is smaller than the Maxlander’s, but the motor power compensates. Edges come out clean. The three height settings let you adjust cutting depth. Since it is corded, you never worry about battery life. Just plug in and go. For large properties with lots of concrete edges, that constant power is a real advantage.
Limitations: the cord. You need an extension cable and an outlet nearby. Range is limited to about 100 feet unless you chain multiple cords. The tool is heavier than battery models—around 12 pounds. And the trenching mode works, but it is not a heavy-duty digger. Shallow, narrow trenches only. For deep irrigation lines, you would want a proper machine. Still, for the occasional trench, it saves renting equipment.
- 12-amp high-torque motor
- 7.5-inch blade, 3 height settings
- Converts between edging and trenching
- Corded — no battery needed
- Ideal for sidewalks, patios, and shallow trenches
Best for: Owners of large yards with long driveways who also need to run shallow trenches for sprinklers or cable.
12IN Cordless Weed Eater
The one that tries to do everything on a budget.
BeautFirst packs three functions into one tool: string trimmer, edger, and lawn mower. The mowing mode is a stretch—it is really just trimming low grass with the head parallel to the ground. But the trimmer and edger functions work fine for small to medium yards. You get two 5.0Ah batteries, which together provide over 60 minutes of runtime. That is enough for most suburban lots.
The adjustable handle rotates 180 degrees, and the head tilts up to 90 degrees for edging. The auto-feed line system spools out string as you work, and a built-in cutter keeps the line at the right length. Assembly is simple—snap the shaft together, mount the guard. The detachable pole makes storage easy.
The main downside is build quality. It feels cheaper than the WORX or Greenworks. The plastic components might not survive a hard knock against concrete. The 20V motor is adequate for thin grass but struggles with thick weeds. And the auto-feed can jam if the line quality is poor. But for someone who needs a basic trimmer and edger combo and does not want to spend much, this gets the job done.
- 12-inch cutting width, string trimmer
- 2×5.0Ah batteries, charger included
- Handle rotates 0-180°, head tilts 0-90°
- Automatic line feed and cut
- Detachable shaft for storage
Best for: Budget-minded homeowners with a small lawn who need a trimmer, edger, and extra runtime from two batteries.
WORX Cordless String Trim
WORX
WORX 20V 12" 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
- 2 IN 1 TRIMMER & EDGER : Easily converts from a string trimmer to an edger lawn tool in just seconds.
- INSTANT LINE FEED: This grass trimmer has innovative push button command feed spool system for instant line feeding. Plus, free sp…
- HEAD TILTS 90°: So you can use string trimmer and edger on sloped terrain, and get to tough-to-reach places.
The one with instant line feed and a tilting head for slopes.
WORX WG163 is a 20V cordless 2-in-1 trimmer and edger. It converts in seconds by rotating the head. The headline feature is Command Feed: you push a button to advance the string instead of bumping the head on the ground. That is a genuine time-saver. No more stopping to whack the trimmer on the pavement. You also get free spools for life when you register the product—a nice long-term value.
The head tilts 90 degrees, so you can trim the edges of sloped terrain without straining your wrist. Rubberized wheels support the edger mode and guide the cut straight. The adjustable spacer guard protects plants and ornaments. At 5.5 pounds, it is the lightest model in this roundup. You can carry it one-handed without fatigue.
Trade-offs: the 20V motor is not a powerhouse. It handles normal grass well but bogs down in thick, wet weeds. The cutting width is 12 inches, typical for string trimmers, but you might need two passes on tall growth. The battery runtime with the included 2.0Ah batteries is around 20-30 minutes of active trimming. The two-pack helps, but you will recharge during a big job. It is best for regular weekly maintenance, not heavy brush clearing.
- 20V battery system, 2 batteries and charger
- Push-button Command Feed line advance
- Head tilts 90° for edging and slopes
- Rubberized guide wheels
- Adjustable spacer guard
Best for: Homeowners who want a lightweight, easy-to-use trimmer and edger with instant line feed and gentle learning curve.
Greenworks 80V 8 in
Greenworks
Greenworks 80V 8 in Cordless Electric Lawn Edger, Tool Only
- [8" Pro Blade & Curb Wheel Combo] - Cuts through compacted soil and concrete curbs with surgical precision. Military-grade steel c…
- [BRUSHLESS BEAST (27cc Gas Equivalent)] - Generates 18% more torque than gas edgers at 68% lower noise. Compatible with all Greenw…
- [2.25" DEEP-CUT MASTERY] - Tool-Free Depth Master Tech delivers industry-leading cutting depth through 5-position adjustment. Achi…
The one for serious cordless power, if you already own 80V batteries.
Greenworks makes a range of 80V outdoor tools, and this edger slots right in. It is tool only—no battery or charger. If you already have Greenworks 80V batteries, you can use them. The brushless motor delivers torque comparable to a 27cc gas edger, but at lower noise and zero fumes. The 8-inch blade cuts a path 34% wider than typical 6-inch edgers, so you finish faster.
Depth adjustment is tool-free with five positions, and you can go up to 2.25 inches deep. The guided wheel system applies 17 pounds of downward pressure to prevent the blade from tearing up turf. The result is clean, crisp edges with surgical precision. The base weighs 10.3 pounds; with a 2Ah battery installed it is 13.8 pounds—28% lighter than comparable gas models. The tri-grip balance system reduces forearm fatigue significantly.
Limitations: you must own or buy Greenworks 80V batteries separately. That is an upfront cost if you are not already in the ecosystem. And while the motor is powerful, the metal blade can throw small rocks. Wear eye protection. The 8-inch blade is great for edging, but this model does not trim—it is strictly an edger. If you need a string trimmer too, you will need a second tool.
- 8-inch military-grade steel blade
- Brushless motor, 80V (tool only)
- 5-position depth up to 2.25 inches
- Guided wheel with 17 lbs downward force
- 4-year warranty on motor and gearbox
Best for: Existing Greenworks 80V users or anyone wanting gas-equivalent edging power without the maintenance.
How We Chose These Products
I started by looking at what real buyers actually need. Some people edge once a week and want it over fast. Others want a tool that does double duty as a trimmer. Some have huge lawns and need corded power. I sorted through dozens of electric trimmers and edgers, focusing on four criteria: power (motor strength and battery capacity), ease of use (weight, adjustments, conversion), durability (materials and warranty), and value (price relative to what you get).
I also considered feedback from users who posted detailed reviews about real-world performance—how a model handles wet grass, how long batteries last in practice, whether the auto-feed jams. That ground truth matters more than a spec sheet. These five models came out ahead because each solves a distinct set of needs without major compromises.
Buying Guide: What Really Matters
First, decide between corded and cordless. Corded tools give unlimited runtime and more consistent power. But you are tethered to an outlet. If your yard has no nearby power, cordless is the only option. Battery voltage (20V vs 80V) roughly correlates with torque. Higher voltage handles tougher soil and thicker roots. But higher voltage usually means heavier batteries.
Next, consider cutting width and blade type. Wider blades or string heads cover more ground per pass. But they may be harder to maneuver in tight spots. Metal blades are best for edging along concrete; string trimmers are safer around plants and fences. Some models convert between the two. Also check depth adjustment—multiple settings let you edge higher or lower depending on the season and grass growth. Finally, weight matters if you have a large yard. A 5.5-pound trimmer feels very different after an hour than a 14-pound machine. Test your comfort level if possible.
Our Top Recommendation
If I had to pick one for the average homeowner doing weekly edge maintenance, the Maxlander 9-inch Lawn Edger is the best overall. It delivers precise cuts, includes a battery and charger, and weighs just 8.8 pounds. The three depth settings cover different grass heights, and the price is reasonable. It is a dedicated edger, so you will need a separate trimmer for tall grass, but for edges it is hard to beat.
If you need more power and already have Greenworks 80V batteries, the Greenworks 8-Inch Edger is the runner-up. It rivals gas models in torque and cuts deeper than most. For a trimmer-edger combo, the WORX WG163 is the most user-friendly, especially with the push-button line feed. And on a tight budget, the BeautFirst offers two batteries and three modes for very little money. Pick the one that matches your yard size and how often you want to maintain those crisp lines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a dedicated edger like the Maxlander or Greenworks for trimming grass in tight corners?
No, these models have a fixed metal blade designed for cutting along hard surfaces. They will not work well for trimming around trees, fence posts, or flower beds. You still need a string trimmer for those spots. If you only want one tool, choose a 2-in-1 model like the WORX or BeautFirst.
How long does a full battery charge last on the cordless models?
It depends on battery capacity and load. The Maxlander’s 4.0Ah battery runs 30-40 minutes of steady edging. The BeautFirst’s two 5.0Ah batteries combine for over 60 minutes. The WORX with two 2.0Ah batteries gives about 40-50 minutes total. Thick grass and deeper cuts drain batteries faster. Always check the battery amp-hour rating, not just voltage.
Is a corded edger better for large yards?
Yes, if you can reach all the edges with an extension cord. Corded motors deliver full torque without power fade. The BLACK+DECKER 12-amp model will never slow down. But you have to manage the cord around shrubs and corners. For yards over half an acre, cordless with a higher voltage (like 80V) and extra batteries is often more practical.
How do I adjust the cutting depth on these edgers?
Each model is different. The Maxlander has a button that lets you select three depths. The Greenworks uses a tool-less lever with five positions. The BLACK+DECKER has a lever for three height settings. The WORX and BeautFirst do not have blade depth adjustment—they rely on the string length and head angle. Read the manual to find the specific mechanism on your model.
