Skip to content

Gas Trimmers vs. Electric Trimmers

30 May 2020 0 Comments
Gas Trimmers vs. Electric Trimmers

Trimming is an essential part of lawn care, and choosing the right kind of trimmer will make a world of difference in getting the job done. Before looking at a long list of models, you’ll first want to determine whether you need a gas-powered or electric-powered trimmer.

The gas trimmer vs. electric trimmer debate is nearly as lively as the debate over the name (Is it a string trimmer? Weed eater? Weed whacker?), but what you call it doesn’t matter nearly as much as finding the one that will work best for what you need. 

Here are some important notes for anyone considering gas trimmers vs. electric trimmers:

  1. Lawn Size. With an electric trimmer, you are limited to the length of your extension cords and availability of a power outlet. There is the option of a cordless, battery-operated trimmer, but these have their own limits considering the charge may last less than an hour, at which point it will need to recharge for several hours. For smaller yards, this is a non-issue. But, large yards nearly always require a gas-powered trimmer, as they aren’t bound by a cord or battery life.
  2. Noise Tolerance. It’s no secret that gas-powered trimmers are much louder than electric, and many require hearing protection. This makes sense, of course, considering all this power is generated by an internal combustion engine. If you prefer to work quietly, electric trimmers are the clear winner over gas.
  3. Terrain. Electric trimmers are quieter than those with gas motors, but they are also less powerful. For trimming the basic lawn’s grass and weeds, this difference likely won’t matter. Both electric and gas trimmers are perfectly capable of slicing through grass. But if you’re dealing with thicker brush and shrubbery, an electric trimmer isn’t going to pack quite enough punch for you. A gas trimmer will be the better choice in this case.
  4. User Strength. Since gas trimmers have an engine, they are noticeably heavier than electric trimmers. Corded electric trimmers don’t have an engine or even a battery, which results in a significantly lighter piece of equipment. Also, gas trimmers are started with a pull-string (like a lawn mower), and may take a couple of pulls to engage. Electric trimmers are turned on with a switch. For the elderly or other users who may have less physical strength, an electric trimmer is a more manageable option.

In summary, here are some pros and cons of gas trimmers vs. electric trimmers:

Gas Trimmers

Pros
  • Fewer Movement Limitations (Cordless)
  • More Power
  • Can Handle Rougher Terrain, Thicker Brush
Cons
  • Louder 
  • Heavier
  • Regular Maintenance Required

Electric Trimmers

Pros
  • Lighter-Weight
  • Less Noise
  • Easy to Start
Cons
  • Limited by Cord
  • Short Battery Life
  • Less Powerful

Bottom line: in the battle of gas trimmers vs. electric trimmers, there are solid reasons for either to come out on top. It all depends on your specific needs.
So, review the pros and cons, consider your particular situation, and then be sure to check out our selection of powerful grass trimmers to find the right one for you.
Prev Post
Next Post

Leave a comment

Please note, comments need to be approved before they are published.

Thanks for subscribing!

This email has been registered!

Shop the look

Choose Options

SENIX Tools
Sign up for discounts, special offers, and product updates.
Edit Option
Have Questions?
Back In Stock Notification
Compare
Product SKURatingDescription Collection Availability Product Type Other Details
this is just a warning
Login
Shopping Cart
0 items