Weed Eater vs Edger: What are the differences?

Weed Eater vs Edger

The two tools often confused for one another, a weed eater and an edger have different purposes.

When it comes to landscaping and yard work, there are two tools that are often confused for one another: the weed eater and the edger. Though they both serve similar purposes, these two tools have different functions.

Weed eaters are string trimmers that are used to cut down weeds and grasses that grow in between patches of pavement or other hard surfaces. They are also used to trim the edges of lawns. Edgers, on the other hand, are used to create clean lines between patches of grass and non-grass surfaces. Edgers can also be used to create straight lines on lawns, making them look neater.

What is a Weed Eater?

Weed eaters, also known as weed whackers, are power tools used for cutting grass and weeds around trees, gardens, and other areas. Weed eaters typically have a curved shaft with a line trimmer on one end and a smaller blade on the other end. The line trimmer is used for cutting grass and weeds, while the small blade can be used for edging.

There are three main types of weed eaters: gas-powered, battery powered and electric-powered.

Gas-powered weed eaters are the most popular type. They are easy to start and have more power than battery powered or electric-powered weed eaters. They also have a longer run time, so they can handle much bigger jobs. It is easy to refill with gas and just keep going.

Gas powered weed eaters are also the loudest type. Most of them require using a gas and oil mixture. That means you will need two gas containers if you also have a gas powered mower or generator.

Battery powered weed eaters are becoming more popular because they are quieter than gas-powered weed eaters and can be used for a short period of time on a single charge. You may need to buy additional batteries if you have a fairly large yard. Usually, a single battery is enough on smaller yards.

Battery powered weed eaters don’t have as much power as gas-powered weed eaters. This means you really need to be on top of your yard work. Taller, thicker grass present a problem for battery powered weed eaters.

Electric-powered weed eaters are also very quiet, but they are connected to a long extension cord. Because of that you can only go as far as your extension cord will let you.

The extension cord itself can create a hazard if couple wet grass and nicked cable and the lack of a GFCI outlet. Make sure your extension cord is in good shape and purchase a GFCI connection to prevent electric shock.

Overall, electric weed eaters are a great choice for people who want a quiet and eco-friendly option. They’re not as powerful as gas models, but they still do a good job of trimming weeds and grass.

Gas-powered weed eaters are more powerful than electric-powered weed eaters and can cover a larger area in less time. Because of the extra power, some weed eaters can be fitted with a saw blade to cut down brush and heavy weeds. If you have this need, even occasionally, the gas powered weed eater is the one to choose.

What is an Edger?

An edger is a gardening tool that is used to create clean, straight lines between the lawn and garden beds. It is also used to trim the edge of the lawn around obstacles like patios, sidewalks, and driveways. An edger rides on two wheels and has a sharp blade that cuts into the ground to create a clean line.

Weed eaters are often mistaken for edgers because they both have blades that cut into the ground. However, weed eaters are designed to cut through tall grass and weeds, while edgers are designed to create clean lines between different areas of your yard.

Edgers are Better for straight lines

Edgers provide a much straighter line than weed eaters. They are also better for larger areas, like driveways and sidewalks, because they can cover more ground in a shorter amount of time. Edgers are also great for creating clean edges on flower beds and other landscaping features.

While you can find gas powered edgers, most edgers are electric powered by batteries or connected with an extension cord. If you are connected to an electrical outlet, be sure to connect to a GFCI outlet or adaptor.

Whether Weed Eater or Edger – Work Safely

Be sure to wear proper safety equipment. This includes:

• Eye protection (goggles or safety glasses)
• Hearing protection (ear plugs or noise cancelling headphones)
• Good shoes
• Gloves
• Long pants and long sleeve shirt

Be aware of your surroundings. Don’t run either machine when there are others around. Also, loose gravel, sticks and mulch can be thrown several yards and hit cars, windows, houses or people. Be alert to any dangerous situation.

Conclusion: Weed eater vs Edger

Edgers have just one job, to make clean edges. And they do that job very well. You don’t have to use them but maybe two or three times a season. Investing a lot of money in an edger is not very practical unless you really want the effect they can create.

Weed eaters can make quick work of yard trimming and make the entire yard look great. Most don’t do well at doing edging around driveways and sidewalks.

By spending a little more, you can purchase a weed eater that can double as an edger. By carefully selecting your model, you can get a weed eater that can convert to an edger and be adapted to a brush cutter. Getting all of those functions in a single tool will save room in your garage or tool shed.