Sometimes called a liner trimmer or weed whacker, a whipper snipper is a handy gardening tool used to cut the edges and corners of your lawn. It uses a plastic or nylon trimmer cord to cut grass and weeds, keeping your yard neat.
When shopping for a whipper snipper, consider if you want a petrol-, electric- or battery-powered model. In general, petrol options are the most powerful, while battery-operated whipper snippers are more lightweight and easier to manoeuvre. The feeding system, attachments, cutting width and rotating cutting head are also important considerations.
Our team has looked into different whipper snippers available online to make your buying decision a little easier. We picked models based on customer reviews and ratings. For each category, we also chose whipper snippers based on key product features to bring you what we believe are the 9 best models you can get right now in Australia.
We picked the AEG 18V Brushless Line Trimmer as the best whipper snipper you can buy online. On Bunnings, it has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Featuring an aluminium split-shaft design and a rear-mounted outer rotor motor, this whipper snipper is lightweight while providing maximum torque for tough applications. It offers 2 speed settings and machine-cut gears for reduced vibration and variability.
This cordless equipment is powered by a 6.0Ah battery (sold separately), giving you over 25 minutes of run time on the high setting. One full charge is enough to do an entire medium-sized yard. There is also a low-profile easy wind and bump-head design for quick line distribution. Additionally, the machine is relatively silent even on the high setting.
When it comes to the best battery-powered option for your gardening needs, we recommend Bosch's Cordless Line Grass Trimmer. On Amazon, it has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars.
This Bosch number has an 18V motor and a rechargeable battery that can cut up to 6 tennis courts. It features various handy functions such as edge trimming and semi-automatic feeding. It can also reach tight spaces to trim even the most stubborn bushes.
Customers praised the whipper snipper's durable yet lightweight design, reasonable price tag and efficient performance. And because it's got superb battery life and smart features, this effortlessly trims overgrown plants and grass in no time. However, several customers said it's not the most ideal option for removing heavy weeds.
At $129, this is an affordable option if you're looking for a cordless whipper snipper. You can also get the kit with an included battery for an extra $60.
In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.
For whipper snippers, Bosch was ranked 9th for value for money, 7th for performance, 8th for ease of use, 9th for cleaning and maintenance and 8th for product features.
9 brands were rated across these decision criteria.
With a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars on Amazon, our pick for the best electric option is the Makita UR3000/2 240V Electric Line trimmer.
This electric line trimmer has a rigid aluminium telescopic pipe shaft and a lightweight AC string trimmer, making it ideal for DIY and semi-professional trimming tasks. For convenience, it has an adjustable loop handle and a motor head that rotates 180 degrees for edge trimming.
There is also a lock-off lever to prevent accidental start-up. Apart from a bump and feed cord feeding system, the UR3000 is powered by a 240V motor to help you cut even the toughest weeds. Several customers said it's easy to start up, allowing them to cut through grass and thicker bushes in a breeze. It tends to get quite noisy, especially at the high setting but this seems to be a minor issue for most users.
How do Australians rate Makita's whipper snippers?
96% of surveyed Australians recommend Makita
4.2
Value for money
4.4
Overall
4.4
Performance
4.4
Ease of use
4.2
Cleaning and maintenance
4.2
Product features
How Makita compares
In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.
For whipper snippers, Makita was ranked 4th for value for money, 5th for performance, 4th for ease of use, 5th for cleaning and maintenance and 5th for product features.
9 brands were rated across these decision criteria.
On productreview.com.au, the Stihl FS 94C-E has a rating of 5 out of 5 stars. This whipper snipper is high-powered yet lightweight, earning the spot for the best petrol option on our list.
The FS 94C-E features the brand's 2-MIX engine that has an advanced stratified charge system for more power while reducing petrol consumption. There is also an easy-to-use starting system that allows you to get the job done in no time. Additionally, the ergonomic bike handle makes the equipment easy to hold and manoeuvre even for longer periods.
At $749, the FS 94C-E is a pricey yet worthwhile investment for a heavy-duty cutting action. It is ideal for trimming stubborn bushes and cleaning larger yards. The fuel tank has a 540ml capacity while the motor offers 900W of power. And despite weighing 4.9kg, this whipper snipper remains a dream to use according to customers.
How do Australians rate Stihl's whipper snippers?
98% of surveyed Australians recommend Stihl
4.4
Value for money
4.5
Overall
4.7
Performance
4.6
Ease of use
4.4
Cleaning and maintenance
4.4
Product features
How Stihl compares
In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.
For whipper snippers, Stihl was ranked 2nd for value for money, 1st for performance, 1st for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 1st for product features.
9 brands were rated across these decision criteria.
When it comes to the best 4-stroke whipper snipper, we recommend Honda's UMS425 Bent Shaft Line Trimmer. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Bunnings and 4 on productreview.com.au.
Powered by the Generation II mini 4-stroke GX25 engine, the UMS425 is suitable for cutting jobs requiring a medium level of power. It features the brand's one-pull start-up for hassle-free starting. And because it is 4-stroke equipment, it doesn't require any fuel mixing.
This machine utilises unleaded fuel and has a bent shaft design for easy manoeuvrability. Customers praised the whipper snipper's user-friendliness, durable design and lightweight build. It's powerful enough to cut through thicker weeds and grass, but some found it requires multiple passes to cut through more stubborn bushes.
How do Australians rate Honda's whipper snippers?
90% of surveyed Australians recommend Honda
4.2
Value for money
4.5
Overall
4.5
Performance
4.4
Ease of use
4.4
Cleaning and maintenance
4.3
Product features
How Honda compares
In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.
For whipper snippers, Honda was ranked 4th for value for money, 2nd for performance, 4th for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 3rd for product features.
9 brands were rated across these decision criteria.
For the best option under $300, our team has picked the Ryobi 25.4cc 2 Stroke Easy Start Straight Shaft Line Trimmer. On Bunnings, it has a rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars.
This Ryobi whipper snipper has a 25.4cc full crank capable 2-stroke engine and the brand's easy-start feature. It has a maximum cutting capability of 457mm, making it suitable for cutting grass and weeds with a medium thickness. Additionally, the machine comes with handy attachments to fit any of your cutting requirements.
Numerous buyers were impressed by the whipper snipper's durable build, easy start-up and efficient performance. Apart from its powerful engine, it has a Speedwinder handle that reduces hand strains when trimming. Users also loved that it's compatible with the brand's Expand-It accessories, making the machine quite versatile. But because it's got a 2-stroke engine, this requires fuel mixing at a 50:1 ratio.
How do Australians rate Ryobi's whipper snippers?
89% of surveyed Australians recommend Ryobi
4.4
Value for money
4.4
Overall
4.5
Performance
4.5
Ease of use
4.4
Cleaning and maintenance
4.4
Product features
How Ryobi compares
In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.
For whipper snippers, Ryobi was ranked 2nd for value for money, 2nd for performance, 2nd for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 1st for product features.
9 brands were rated across these decision criteria.
We recommend the Ryobi One+ 18V 25cm/30cm Cordless Line Trimmer as the best whipper snipper under $200. It has a rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars on Bunnings.
Featuring high-performance cordless motor technology, this Ryobi whipper snipper has an adjustable cutting width of 25cm or 30cm for versatility. This means it can trim grass and weed of varying thicknesses with ease. There is also an auto feed spool cutting mechanism and an EasyEdge shaft that rotates easily for quick changes between edging and trimming.
The equipment's telescopic shaft and adjustable front handle also mean it's easy to move around, allowing you to trim or edge a large garden without straining your hands. Additionally, it has a lightweight design and an auto-feed system for the ultimate convenience.
Several customers said it's a bit too noisy for their liking but added that it's not a dealbreaker. One critic also mentioned it takes longer to trim their large yard.
How do Australians rate Ryobi's whipper snippers?
89% of surveyed Australians recommend Ryobi
4.4
Value for money
4.4
Overall
4.5
Performance
4.5
Ease of use
4.4
Cleaning and maintenance
4.4
Product features
How Ryobi compares
In the 2023 Finder Retail Awards, we surveyed over 34,000 Australians about their retail purchases to discover which were their favourite brands across 170 product categories and over 1,200 total brands.
For whipper snippers, Ryobi was ranked 2nd for value for money, 2nd for performance, 2nd for ease of use, 1st for cleaning and maintenance and 1st for product features.
9 brands were rated across these decision criteria.
For small yards, our team has selected the BLACK+DECKER 36V Lithium-Ion 33cm String Trimmer Kit as the best option. Apart from being cordless, it features brushless technology for more cutting power. It also has a rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars on Amazon.
This whipper snipper features a brushless motor for improved power efficiency and a cordless operation for easy mobility. It also has the brand's POWERCOMMAND feature, which supplies a simple line feed at the push of a button. There is a 33cm cutting swath for efficient trimming, ideal for both small and large yards.
This equipment has a user-friendly extendable pole for height adjustment as well as a long-lasting lithium-ion battery for a longer runtime. The secondary adjustable handle is comfy to grip while giving full control at all angles. Despite being heavy, this remains a pretty decent solution for heavy-duty cutting and trimming needs.
With a rating of 4.8 out of 5 stars on Bunnings, we picked the ECHO 21.2cc Straight Shaft Line Trimmer as the best option for big yards.
For trimming jobs that require heavy-duty power, this ECHO line trimmer is your best bet. It has a 17-inch cutting swathe that allows you to finish the job faster. It features a 21.2c Japan-quality 2-stroke engine and a G138 feed head pump for the ultimate efficiency.
There is also a Speed-Feed trimmer head for quick line loading. Additionally, the machine has a commercial-grade felt filter and a 59-inch straight shaft to cut through hard-to-reach locations. When it comes to quick start-up, it's got an ES Start spring-assisted function. But do note that this is a 2-stroke model, which means it requires some fuel mixing.
Save on whipper snipper with these deals and discounts:
Amazon prices last updated on 25 April, 2024 at 12:01 pmeBay prices last updated on 25 April, 2024 at 08:14 pm
How did we pick this list?
19 Brands considered
76 Products compared
9 Best products chosen
Why you can trust our picks
Our team has looked into a wide range of whipper snippers available online, evaluating options from the following brands:
AEG
Baumr
BLACK + DECKER
Bosch
DeWalt
ECHO
Giants
Homelite
Honda
INGCO
Makita
MTM
Ozito
Ryobi
Stanley
Stihl
Toro
Victa
Worx
We thoroughly analysed each whipper snipper's key product features like value for money, portability, cutting width and feeding system to find the 9 best models you can get right now in Australia. We also considered customer reviews and ratings (as of August 2022).
What is a whipper snipper or lawn trimmer?
Whether you call it a whipper snipper, a line trimmer, a weed whacker or any of its other monikers, this gardening tool is a very useful item to have in your shed.
A whipper snipper can be used to cut all those edges and corners of your lawn that a lawn mower can't reach and can even keep small yards looking neat and tidy. They use a trimmer cord (also known as a trimmer line) made of nylon or plastic to cut grass and weeds down to size, and there are petrol-, electric- and battery-powered models available.
Types of whipper snippers
There are 3 types of whipper snippers to choose from:
Petrol-powered whipper snippers. The first option most people consider is a 2-stroke or 4-stroke line trimmer. They offer the most cutting power, are easy to use and can make quick work of your backyard lawn duties. However, the noise and air pollution they produce can be a major turn-off for some buyers.
Electric-powered whipper snippers. While there's only a small number of electric line trimmers available, they're an affordable option and don't require as much maintenance as petrol-powered models. They're easier to start and can be all you need to tackle a smaller yard. The obvious drawbacks are that you'll need to drag around an extension cord (be careful not to cut it) and also stay within reach of a power point, which isn't always possible in some yards.
Battery-powered whipper snippers. Battery-powered (or cordless) whipper snippers tend to be a little more expensive than corded models but offer all the same advantages. You also don't have to worry about dragging around a cord or staying near a power source, and you can often use your whipper snipper battery to power other tools from the same manufacturer. However, you'll need to consider battery run time and recharge time before you buy, as running out of juice halfway through a job can be very annoying.
How to compare whipper snippers
Head in-store and physically pick up any whipper snipper you're thinking of buying. This will give you a better idea of how easy and practical the machine will be to use on a regular basis. Ask yourself the following questions:
Is it lightweight enough for you to comfortably use it for long periods?
Is its grip firm and comfortable?
Can you start is easily?
Are all controls are clearly labelled and within easy reach?
Is it hard to feed more trimming line into the whipper snipper?
For more inspiration, check out our guide to the best whipper snippers in Australia. While you're shopping, consider the following key specs and features:
Price
You can pick up a budget line trimmer for under $100, while top-end cordless models max out at around $700. However, most line trimmers cost around $200–$400.
Bent vs straight shaft
Bent or curved shafts are more common. They are lightweight, easier to manoeuvre and are good at edging, while straight-shaft line trimmers offer a longer reach, are suitable for tall people and are better suited to more heavy-duty work. Straight shaft models are also generally more expensive.
Feeding system
Bump-feed systems are the most common and feature the line wound onto an internal spool. When you bump or press the head of the trimmer on the ground, more line is fed out. Automatic feed systems automatically release more trimming line when you need it. Manual feed systems use fixed lengths of line that you can remove and replace as needed.
Attachments
Depending on your needs, you may also want to consider what replacement parts or additional accessories are available for your line trimmer. Options include replacement trimmer heads and spools, extension poles and hedge trimmer, leaf blower and pruner attachments.
Cutting width
If you've got a large area of grass you need to trim, check the specs sheet to find out a whipper snipper's cutting width.
Rotating cutting head
With many whipper snippers, if you want to switch from grass cutting to edging, you'll need to hold the whole tool at a different angle. However, some models come with heads that can rotate 90 degrees to make this task easier.
Whipper snippers vs brush cutters
If you're looking for something to keep your lawn edges looking good and keep weeds in check, a whipper snipper will be more than adequate for most people. However, if you live on a large property or you need to tackle some heavier-duty jobs, you may want to invest in a brush cutter.
Brush cutters generally feature a straight shaft and unlike the string used in a line trimmer, they use metal blades to cut through thicker vegetation and tree branches. There are also different blade attachments available depending on what you need to cut, making a brush cutter versatile enough to tackle a wide range of tasks.
However, they're a little more difficult to use than ordinary whipper snippers and will be overkill for many home gardeners.
There are plenty of other power gardening tools that can make light work of all your backyard maintenance jobs, so you might also want to check our guides on hedge trimmers and blower vacuums.
How to use a whipper snipper
Keep these key points in mind before deciding on the best line trimmer for your needs:
Stay safe. The safety guard on your line trimmer helps prevent debris being flung in your direction, but make sure it still allows good visibility of the cutting area. Using protective eyewear (and earwear if using a petrol-powered model) is also essential, as is keeping limbs and loose clothing away from the trimming line. Finally, make sure your whipper snipper is completely stopped before performing any maintenance or repairs.
Use a shoulder harness. If holding a line trimmer aloft for long periods places too much of a strain on your arms and back, look for a model that comes with a shoulder harness.
Buying a battery-powered model? Make sure you check how much run time you can get on a full charge, and how long it takes to recharge. If you've got a larger yard, buying a model that comes with a spare battery will ensure that you can keep on cutting when the first battery runs out of juice.
Frequently asked questions
AEG’s 18V Brushless Line Trimmer is what we’d recommend as the best whipper snipper.
Lightweight, cordless options are the best options for ladies. These are easier to manoeuvre while providing more than enough power for any trimming and cutting tasks.
Prepare the line before changing your whipper snipper's cord. Make sure you have the right width or your equipment will not function properly. The length of the cord also depends on your whipper snipper. Check your manufacturer's manual for recommendations.
Next, turn off your machine. Remove the retaining cap and locate the starter hole in the spool. Insert the tip of the cord and wind in the appropriate direction. Make sure the cord is fed smoothly to prevent any jamming.
You can hold your whipper snipper vertically to achieve perfect edges. However, this can be damaging to your ear and breathing if you're using a 2-stroke or 4-stroke whipper snipper.
In general, cordless whipper snippers have a runtime between 30 and 60 minutes. But battery life still depends on the equipment's model and make.
Best-rated whipper snipper brand award breakdown
Brand
Ease of use
Performance
Safety
Value for Money
Overall rating
Recommended
Total Score
Stihl
4.58
4.67
4.6
4.24
4.62
96%
8.43
Bosch
4.38
4.46
4.5
4.5
4.46
96%
8.23
Husqvarna
4.22
4.39
4.39
4.11
4.39
100%
8.07
Ryobi
4.34
4.26
4.38
4.26
4.36
96%
8.03
Honda
4.25
4.39
4.36
4.11
4.39
89%
7.99
Victa
4.08
4.24
4.32
4.04
4.32
88%
7.83
Ozito
4.36
4.02
4.26
4.46
4.08
88%
7.66
Homelite
4
4.21
4.21
4.43
3.86
86%
7.38
Makita
4.18
3.93
4.25
3.86
3.89
79%
7.25
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2020, Kantar. Metric out of 5 stars unless indicated. Methodology and more info.
Brand
Design
Ease of use
Features & functions
Quietness
Safety
Value for Money
Overall rating
Recommended
Homelite
3.8
3.85
3.5
3.15
4
3.95
3.65
78%
Honda
4.29
4.33
3.92
3.71
4.42
3.92
4.25
100%
Husqvarna
4.22
4.39
4.11
3.78
4.5
3.94
4.44
100%
Makita
4.31
4.41
4.16
4
4.22
4.38
4.34
100%
Ozito
3.77
4.05
3.41
3.68
4.03
4.12
3.79
85%
Ryobi
4.1
4.11
3.89
3.55
4.23
4.07
4.01
90%
Stihl
4.07
3.89
4.02
3.29
4.38
4.12
3.95
93%
Victa
4.17
3.96
3.83
3.88
4.27
4.08
4.17
90%
Data: Finder Retail Brand Survey, 2019, Roy Morgan. Metric out of 5 stars unless indicated. Methodology and more info.
Why you can trust Finder Shopping best guides
We're knowledgeable
Our editorial team has decades of experience testing and comparing products. We only use experienced journalists with proven track records.
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We assess hundreds of products for each guide to ensure you're getting a full overview of the market. All guides are regularly reviewed and fact-checked.
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Selections are based on our own research, comparisons and testing. We do not use automation software or AI. Every best guide follows a stringent methodology.
Ericka Pingol is a writer for Finder specialising in reviews. She has previously written articles about property investment, finances, and health. She’s a huge fan of Tina Fey, bubble teas and dogs. Ericka has a Bachelor of Arts in English from the University of the East, Manila and is currently writing her thesis for a Master’s degree in Communication
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