Are you looking for the best electric or battery-powered brushcutter? Read my reviews, opinions and selection guide.
If you are planning to get rid of scrub, and if tall grass has invaded your yard, then electric brush cutters will prove to be lifesaving tools. In fact, these are devices designed specifically for cutting weeds and bushes, therefore ideal for cleaning up any green area. Of course, the usefulness of the cordless or corded brushcutter can change depending on the work you intend to do, and the size of the surfaces to be cleaned. Don’t worry, because today we will go into every useful detail together.
Table of Contents
What is the electric brushcutter used for?
As I mentioned, it is a useful power tool for cutting tall grass and getting rid of weeds in the garden. One of its main advantages is the handling, considering that it allows you to reach all those areas otherwise inaccessible with a lawnmower. However, be aware that they are not very suitable for cleaning very large areas, but they are very effective when the brushwood is so high that it is difficult to use lawn mowers. In summary, they are the enhanced version of the electric trimmers, instead, designed to finish the borders of flower beds.
Best electric brushcutters
1. Bosch 06008A9000 AFS 23-37 950 W
Without a doubt the best hobby level brushcutter, and even something more. The Bosch AFS, in fact, is equipped with a powerful 950 watt motor, and is equipped with both a flush cutting head and a blade unit. In addition, in the package you will find 3 extra wires and a protective cap. As far as the structure is concerned, it is interesting to underline the presence of a lateral handlebar grip, which will give you the possibility to assume various positions during mowing.
- Power: 950 watts
- Cutting head: wire, blades (included)
- Weight: 5.3 kilograms
- Extra: extra handle, shoulder strap
You can use it to do everything in the garden, from cutting tall grass to cleaning areas with brambles, medium-strength undergrowth, reeds and various weeds. All this due to the good power of the engine, which is able to support the cutting unit with the blades without problems. However, it is clear that you will not be able to use it to clean large areas without pauses, as the engine could overheat in the long run. Not bad, because for the gardens it is a real jewel.
The replacement of the cutting head is quick and easy, and it doesn’t weigh much, considering that it does not exceed 5.3 kilos. Secondly, it offers exceptional performance and it is a really well balanced power tool, comfortable to use, also thanks to the presence of the adjustable shoulder strap. Also know that the supplied cutting line is very strong (extra-strong), and that the handle is comfortable and ergonomic. It has a fairly short cable (50cm), so you will need the extension cable.
2. Gardena 09874-20 PowerCut 650 W
I also decided to review this cable trimmer from Gardena. It is a purely hobby model and designed for small gardens, considering that it has a motor with a total power of 650 watts. It is a model with a flush head already installed, and it does not allow you to mount the blade assembly, because the motor would not be able to handle it. In summary, it’s fine for tall grass and underbrush with a not too hard stem, but it struggles a bit if you put it to the test too much.
- Power: 650 watts
- Cutting head: wire (1.6 mm)
- Weight: 3 kilograms
- Extra: edging function
On the other hand, it offers remarkable cutting precision and is quite handy, even due to its limited weight (3 kilograms). In addition, it has a telescopic shaft that can be extended according to your needs, does not overheat and has a front handle that can be adjusted. As for the other technical data, it has a cutting diameter corresponding to 28 centimeters, and the replacement of the wire is not at all complicated, since it does not require the use of keys or other tools.
Among the other peculiarities to underline, we find a cutting head that can be oriented and an agility that will allow you to use it also as an edge trimmer. In fact, there is a special function for edging, with the possibility of angling the cutting head up to 90 degrees, for vertical finishing. Furthermore, you will not have to fear for the health of your plants, as there is a protection headband that can also be disassembled without problems if necessary. However, consider that the diameter of the wire is not very large (1.6 mm).
3. Alpina B 1.0 EJ 1000 Watt
This brushcutter from Alpina can be seen as a semi-professional product, due to the power of the engine (1,000 watts), and a cutting width of 37 cm. It is not very heavy as it does not exceed 4.9 kilos and has a handle that can be adjusted without difficulty. Furthermore, the presence of an aluminum transmission rod makes it very robust but without increasing the overall weight of the tool, which remains quite manageable.
- Power: 1,000 watts
- Cutting head: wire, blades (included)
- Weight: 4.9 kilograms
- Extra: extra handle, shoulder strap
The balance is excellent overall, there is a system that reduces vibrations and the line head is a “Beat and Go”, therefore with a quick plastic cable feed. Speaking of wire: in the package you will find a 1.5 mm thick twisted nylon cable, but if you have to use it on dirty areas and with brambles I suggest you replace it with a cable with a larger diameter, to prevent it from breaking continuously. If, on the other hand, you have to use it for cutting soft grass in the garden, then the line already supplied is just fine.
The tap and go cartridge doesn’t work very well, but that’s the only limitation there. There is also the side handle to change the cutting position, while the shaft can be separated into 2 pieces to take up less space when storing it. In addition, the Alpine perfectly withstands intensive use and is destined to last a long time even if you “torture” it. Finally, it is extremely competitively priced, includes the shoulder strap and a 3-blade cutting unit, and overall has few reliable competitors.
Best cordless brushcutters
1. Greenworks Tools G40LTK2 Li-Ion 40 V
Probably one of the few models of battery-powered brushcutters worthy of the name, albeit of a hobbyist level and suitable only for grass and brushwood with a light and not too thick stem. It mounts a 2 Ah battery (included in the package) and has a voltage of 40 V. In my opinion, the power and cutting performance are surprising, if we consider that we are still talking about a battery-powered model, therefore with a motor. limited force play and not suitable for bramble and very dirty areas.
- Voltage: 40 V
- Battery: 2 Ah
- Duration: 30-60 minutes
- Cutting head: wire
- Weight: 4 kilograms
The cutting width is 30 centimeters, it weighs around 4 kilos (because it mounts the battery), and the wire has a thickness of around 1.6 mm. The head for the record is a “Beat and Go”, so the line unwinds without having to pull it out by hand. The overall stability of the tool is good, the rod can be disassembled in two for easy storage (but it is not telescopic), while the handle can be adjusted by turning it. For use in the garden it is a very interesting tool.
Of course, consider that the battery does not have an infinite duration, since the autonomy on average ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the intensity of use and the work you will do. However, I advise you not to underestimate it: despite being battery-powered and with obvious limitations, it has surprising power and performs well even against medium-hard brushwood, as long as you don’t overdo it. Then consider that there is a convenient battery charge indicator, which will allow you to constantly monitor its duration, so as not to remain “on foot”.
2. Worx WG163E 2 in 1 20V Battery
In the field of non-professional products, with a very economical cost, I also include this Worx battery electric brushcutter. It is a 2-in-1 device, meaning that you can also use it as an edge cutter and for finishing flower beds. It is clear that we are not faced with a powerful model, but it manages to cut tall grass without difficulty, although it is not suitable for dirty soils, for hard scrubs and for very large gardens.
- Voltage: 20 V
- Batteries: 2 Ah (2 batteries included)
- Duration: 30 minutes on battery
- Cutting head: wire
- Weight: 2.4 kilograms
The pack includes 2 2 Ah batteries, each with an average duration of around 20-30 minutes, so with both batteries charged you can work up to almost 60 minutes continuously. The voltage is equal to 20 V, while the cutting diameter reaches up to 30 centimeters, with a wire with a thickness of 1.6 millimeters. Its lightness (weight of 2.4 kilos) allows you to use it practically “flying”, and it has a truly amazing handling. In addition, the transmission rod is telescopic and therefore you can extend it according to your needs.
The cutting head can be tilted 90 degrees to activate the edging function, the head is a knock and go, and there is protection to prevent damage to plants and flowers. Also know that this Worx battery brushcutter has a double button to prevent accidental starts and an adjustable handle. In summary, it is a truly excellent product for small gardens and demanding jobs, as well as extremely versatile, since you can use it both as a brush cutter and for cutting lawn edges.
How to choose the electric and battery brushcutter
1. Power supply
As you surely already know, electric brushcutters can be powered either by cable or by battery. Both types have both advantages and disadvantages, so the choice always depends on the use you will make of them and the context in which you will work.
Battery-powered brushcutter
The main advantage of a battery-powered brushcutter is the following: since there is no cable, and since it does not need to be connected to an electrical outlet, you can use it without spatial limits, therefore moving freely in the garden. This is an almost obligatory choice, if you have to work in green areas without the presence of a power outlet.
In summary, you can reach any area, but of course you will still be tied to the battery life, not eternal. On the other hand, the autonomy of these devices is sufficient to work for an hour without the fear of being “dry”. Finally, despite being heavier than cable models, they remain particularly manageable, but have lower power than wire-fed appliances.
Cable brush cutter
On the other hand we find the electric wire-powered brushcutters. They have an infinite working autonomy, since they are not related to the battery life, but impose limits in terms of movement, since the cable is present. They therefore need a power outlet nearby, although this problem can be partially solved by using an extension cable. On the other hand, the power of these devices is higher than the battery-powered ones, since the latter would never be able to withstand a high wattage, without discharging in a short time.
If you have to cut tall grass in the garden, and you have an outdoor socket, I personally recommend that you opt for a cable machine. You will gain in power and therefore in performance, and you will not be forced to stop work due to the low battery. Finally, among the advantages I would like to point out a great lightness given by the absence of the battery, as well as being very easy to use, while still guaranteeing great results.
2. Purpose of use and size
As I mentioned, when you choose a brushcutter you must always study the context in which you will use it. And this context also includes the type of job and the square footage of the surface you will clean with the tool. Remaining below 500 square meters, a brushcutter of this type represents an excellent solution, provided that it is used for cutting tall grass and brush with a stem that is not too broad or hard. If you have to cut brambles and bushes, be aware that battery-powered products are unsuitable.
If you have to make a continuous cut, which requires several hours of work, there are two solutions: either buy a cable model, if you have the possibility to connect it to the mains, or buy a battery-powered brushcutter, possibly buying a battery of replacement. If you have to work in undergrowth, cut through reeds or clean areas that have long been abandoned to nature, then electric brushcutters could struggle. In those cases, in fact, you should opt for a petrol brush cutter.
3. Engine power
The power of the engine of a brushcutter is always fundamental, since the ability to cut brushwood with medium or large hardness stems depends on it. If the motor does not have sufficient wattage, in fact, the appliance will not be able to cut the weeds and consequently will not offer the performance suitable for the purpose. As for the power values, these obviously vary according to the type of power supply. Batteries cannot support very high wattage, simply because they will run out of power in a short time.
- Corded brush cutter: the motor power is always measured in Watts, and starts from a minimum of about 500 W up to a maximum of over 1,500 W. The range from 500 to 600 watts houses the models for hobby use and for those who do not have large claims. From 1,000 W upwards, on the other hand, you enter the field of semi-professional or professional brushcutters.
- Battery-powered brushcutter: in battery models the power is always indicated by specifying the battery voltage. Also in this case it is possible to make a distinction between the most performing devices and the “weakest” ones, starting from 18V up to 36V. Always remember that the power of battery powered appliances is not comparable to those powered by cable.
Based on what factors do you have to choose? The high power of the cable models is indicated if you need to cut thick grass and weeds with medium hardness, such as in the case of brambles or stringy plants. If, on the other hand, you have to limit yourself to cutting the grass, then the battery-powered brushcutter can also be fine.
4. Cutting capacity
Surely you already know that every brushcutter is equipped with a cutting head, generally composed of a disc with two protruding plastic cables. The rotation allows the wires to attack the weeds at the base of the stem, so as to cut them with maximum effectiveness. It is clear that there are also other options, to be preferred to nylon when it comes to carrying out more complex or particular operations.
- Brushcutter blade: Brushcutter blades are great for cutting brambles, brushwood with sturdy stems and even woody weeds such as reeds.
- Brush for brush cutterBrushes are mostly used for cleaning floors, cutting weeds and removing plants from driveways.
Having said that, there are a number of values regarding the cutting capacity to be studied, as in the case of the width, speed and thickness of the wires.
Width of cut
The cutting width is a value expressed in centimeters, and indicates the diameter of the rotation performed by the two nylon cables of the head. Naturally, the greater the cutting width, the greater the area of the garden that you can clean with a single pass, obtaining the same results but reducing the work time. As for the technical data, usually the cutting width ranges from a minimum of 20 cm up to a maximum of 40 cm.
Of course, the cutting width also counts when attacking plants with an important stem thickness. To give you a concrete example: if you have to cut bushes and brambles, it is better to opt for an electric brush cutter with a large cutting diameter, from 30 cm upwards.
Cutting speed
The cutting speed essentially depends on the power of the motor, and indicates the speed of movement of the wires. It is measured in revolutions or rotations per minute (RPM), starts at a minimum of about 5,000 RPM and can go up to around 9,000 revolutions per minute. The models with a high rotation “nest” better against the sturdy stems, ensuring a more efficient and more precise cut.
Wire thickness and types
If you are interested in this topic, I recommend that you read mine guide on the wire for brush cutter, where you will also find reviews of the best. In summary, when you evaluate the yarn you have to consider two elements: the thickness and the type of structure. The section can be round, square, or pentagonal, and the latter two are most effective for demanding cuts and sturdy stems. The diameter, or the thickness of the wire, can range from a minimum of 1.5 mm up to a maximum greater than 3.5 mm. The thicker the cable, the stronger it will be and the more it will be able to withstand impact with hard surfaces.
In summary, the mix of the elements seen in this section determine the cutting capacity of an electric brush cutter.
5. Structural elements
In my opinion, it is important to thoroughly analyze all the structural elements that make up a brushcutter, also due to the need to differentiate it from edge trimmers. In this regard, know that the latter always have a curved transmission shaft, while in electric and battery-powered brushcutters it is almost always straight.
Heaviness
Cable products are not heavy at all, for the reasons I explained to you at the beginning of the guide: they do not have a battery (which represents an extra burden), and they must not tolerate the presence of a complex and heavy engine like the petrol engine. The weight of the wire models fluctuates around 5 kilograms, but you can also find lighter or heavier appliances. The weight of battery-powered brushcutters, on the other hand, can even reach 8 or 9 kilos.
Handle
The handle of the brushcutter counts both for comfort and for the grip of the hands, and because it is the part that houses the controller of the appliance, therefore the panel with the start and stop commands. Among other things, heavier products usually have a double handle, with a handle placed on the front. Sometimes you may also find a third side handlebar handle, or a double handlebar handle: in summary, the more options you have the more positions you can take while mowing.
Transmission rod
As mentioned several times, in a battery or electric brushcutter worthy of the name the transmission shaft is always straight and almost never bent. Furthermore, it often has a diameter between 2.5 and 3.5 cm, and inside the tubular there is a second rod, which has the task of directing the energy of the motor in the direction of the bevel gear. The torque, on the other hand, is located on the final section of the shaft and is used to activate the rotation of the cutting head.
Protective shell
Protection is essential, as it guarantees the operator’s safety, and protects him from crazy splinters and pebbles raised during cutting operations. Especially when working in undergrowth or in particularly dirty soils, the rear cover is essential to allow you to cut without worries.
6. Accessories supplied
Depending on the price and quality of the model, you may find different accessories in the package, such as the three-edged blade head, to be used as an alternative to the classic corded head. Another accessory often present is the strap for wearing the brushcutter over the shoulder, useful for lightening its weight and distributing it better, so as not to burden the user’s back.
Note: a special case is represented by multifunction brushcutters, which allow you to attach different cutting units, such as hedge trimmers, chainsaws, pruners and much more to the shaft. These assemblies may or may not be included as accessory components.
In some cases you may also find some PPE such as ear defenders and goggles, along with a spare spool of thread. Finally, watch out for battery-powered models: not all of them include the battery and charger, while others even insert a second battery in the pack, to be used as a spare.
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