Top Grass Trimmers for 2026: Expert Tested and Reviewed
Our expert reviewed eight electric grass trimmers, including cordless and corded models, to find the best for UK gardens. The Stihl FSA 50 took top honours for its flexibility and battery life, while the Mac Allister MCI1198GGT offered unbeatable value. For heavy-duty work, the Bosch AdvancedBrushCut 36V-23-750 excelled, and the Flymo SimpliTrim 230 Plus was perfect for small gardens.
How We Tested
We selected eight grass trimmers at a range of prices: five battery-powered cordless and three corded. Each was tested for battery life, noise, and cutting performance on grass edges, ivy, and weeds. Battery life was measured by running the trimmer continuously until the battery drained. Noise was recorded using the Decibel X app. Trimming tests were conducted on a lawn left uncut for two weeks, as well as on undergrowth under a beech hedge. We also performed guerrilla trimming on unruly nettles in a nearby alley.
Best Grass Trimmer Overall: Stihl FSA 50
Price: From £159 (body only) / £239 (with battery)
Cutting width: 28cm
Weight: 3.9kg (with battery)
Battery life: 1hr 11mins (with 4Ah battery)
The Stihl FSA 50 impressed with its balanced, lance-like design and variable trigger for power control. It trimmed edges brilliantly and shredded ivy under the hedge. The head adjusts to multiple angles, including vertical for edging. Optional extras include a plastic-bladed mowing head and shoulder strap.
Best Budget Grass Trimmer: Mac Allister MCI1198GGT
Price: From £36 (body only) / £69 (with battery)
Cutting width: 25cm
Weight: 2.05kg (with battery)
Battery life: 40mins 34secs
Despite its low price, this trimmer offers adjustable height, handle, and cutting head (seven positions). It performed decently on grass but struggled with tougher weeds. It's lightweight and great value for basic edging.
Best for Heavy-Duty Trimming: Bosch AdvancedBrushCut 36V-23-750
Price: From £154.99 (body only) / £203 (with battery)
Cutting width: 33cm (or 23cm with blade)
Weight: 4.2kg (with battery)
Battery life: 44mins 7secs
This trimmer features a durable alloy chassis and a thick 2.4mm cutting line. It pulverised ivy and ground cover, and its included brush-cutting attachment with metal blade sliced through woody stalks. However, the fixed cutting head limits vertical edging.
Best for Small Gardens: Flymo SimpliTrim 230 Plus
Price: From £33
Cutting width: 23cm
Weight: 2.2kg (including cord)
Cable length: 6m
Compact and corded, this trimmer is surprisingly powerful for its size. It has a wheel for steady vertical edging and handled grass and ivy well. The fixed height may be too short for taller users.
Other Models Tested
Mac Allister MGT60030 (Corded)
Price: £54
Cutting width: 25cm
Weight: 3.6kg
Power: 478W
Powerful for grass and light weeds, but heavy and vibrates more than rivals.
Einhell GC-ET 4530 (Corded)
Price: From £32.95
Cutting width: 30cm
Weight: 2.9kg
Power: 416W
Good value corded option with a large cutting area and low vibration, but less powerful than the Mac Allister MGT60030.
Einhell GE-CT 18/30 Li-Solo (Cordless)
Price: From £69.95 (body only)
Cutting width: 30cm
Weight: 2.7kg (with battery)
Battery life: 1hr 5mins 53secs
Affordable cordless with a large cutting head and good battery deals. Performance similar to the Makita DUR193Z.
Makita DUR193Z (Cordless)
Price: From £105.25 (body only)
Cutting width: 26cm
Weight: 2.7kg (with battery)
Battery life: 1hr 30mins 48secs
Long battery life with 5Ah batteries, but more expensive than similar models without significant added power or features.
Sustainability and Safety
Bosch, Makita, Einhell, and Flymo use the most sustainable packaging (cardboard and paper only). All manufacturers offer spares and comply with WEEE regulations. Stihl provides repairs through dealers; Bosch, Makita, and Einhell have service centres. For safety, wear safety glasses, long trousers, and sturdy shoes. Clear debris from the cutting head and air vents after use. To protect wildlife, poke around the area with a broom handle before trimming to allow animals to escape. According to our tester, Andy Shaw, 'Grass trimmers are among the worst garden tools for sending debris flying.'
