Sharp Lawn Lines: Top Brushless Auto Edgers
The Greenworks 12 Amp corded edger leads for automatic feed and raw power, ideal for large yards with outlets nearby, but cord management can be a hassle.
A crisp lawn edge sets off any yard, but manual edging is tedious. Automatic brushless edgers solve this by feeding line at the push of a button, saving you from bumping and stopping.
Brushless motors offer more torque and longer life than brushed ones. They also run cooler and more efficiently, which means better runtime for battery models and consistent power for corded ones.
The shortlist, ranked
Greenworks 12 Amp 14-Inch Corded Edger
This edger has a 12-amp brushless motor that chews through thick grass. The automatic feed system delivers line with a button, and the 14-inch cutting swath covers ground quickly. Owners report solid build and easy depth adjustment.
Pros
- Strong motor handles tough edges
- Automatic feed reduces downtime
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cons
- Cord can be limiting
- Noise level is noticeable
DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Edger
DEWALT’s cordless edger runs on a 20V battery and uses a brushless motor. It has an automatic feed head and a guide wheel for straight edges. Users like the balance and the ability to move freely without cords.
Pros
- No cord to manage
- Easy to start and operate
- Good build quality
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Run time may be short for big yards
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Auto Feed Edger
This cordless edger from BLACK+DECKER is budget-friendly and includes a brushless motor. It has an automatic feed spool and a compact design. Owners find it easy to handle and adequate for typical home use.
Pros
- Affordable price point
- Lightweight and easy to store
- Battery included with kit
Cons
- Less power for thick weeds
- Run time is moderate
EGO Power+ 15-Inch Cordless Edger
EGO’s edger uses their 56V battery system and a brushless motor to deliver commercial-like performance. It has an automatic feed and a 15-inch cutting width. Users appreciate the long runtime and fast charging.
Pros
- Excellent battery life
- High power output
- Tool-free depth adjustment
Cons
- Battery and charger not included
- Premium price
Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Edger
Ryobi’s edger is part of the 18V ONE+ family, so it shares batteries with many tools. It features a brushless motor and automatic feed. Owners like the adjustable handle and the ability to use existing batteries.
Pros
- Battery compatibility with other Ryobi tools
- Adjustable handle for comfort
- Reasonable price
Cons
- Not as powerful as higher voltage models
- Battery life is average
CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless Edger
Craftsman’s V20 edger offers a brushless motor at a lower price. It has automatic feed and a compact design. Users report it is decent for light to medium edging and easy to use.
Pros
- Low cost
- Lightweight
- Part of V20 system
Cons
- Limited power
- Battery not included in some kits
Worx 20V Cordless Edger
Worx makes a compact edger that is easy to store and maneuver. It uses a brushless motor and has automatic feed. The small size makes it ideal for tight spaces, but it may not handle heavy-duty jobs.
Pros
- Very lightweight
- Easy to store
- Automatic feed works well
Cons
- Less powerful
- Small cutting width
How they compare
| # | Model | Power Source | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Greenworks 12 Amp 14-Inch Corded Edger | Corded electric | Large yards with nearby outlets | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | DEWALT 20V MAX XR Brushless Edger | 20V battery | Portability and convenience | 9.2 | Check price |
| 3 | BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX Auto Feed Edger | 20V battery | Small to medium yards | 8.8 | Check price |
| 4 | EGO Power+ 15-Inch Cordless Edger | 56V battery | Quick edging with long runtime | 9.0 | Check price |
| 5 | Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Edger | 18V battery | Versatility with ONE+ system | 8.6 | Check price |
| 6 | CRAFTSMAN V20 Brushless Edger | 20V battery | DIYers on a budget | 8.4 | Check price |
| 7 | Worx 20V Cordless Edger | 20V battery | Compact storage and handling | 8.2 | Check price |
What matters most
Common questions
What is an automatic brushless lawn edger?
It is a lawn edger with a brushless motor and an automatic line feed system. The brushless motor is more efficient and durable. Automatic feed means you press a button to release more line, rather than bumping the head.
How does automatic line feed work?
Automatic feed uses a button or lever to advance the line. When the line wears down, you press the button and the spool releases new line. This saves time compared to bump feed, where you tap the head on the ground.
Are brushless edgers worth the extra cost?
Yes, brushless motors last longer and run cooler. They also provide more torque and better battery efficiency. Over time, they can save money because they require less maintenance and have a longer lifespan.
Can I use any battery with these edgers?
No, each brand uses its own battery system. For example, DEWALT edgers use DEWALT batteries, and Ryobi uses ONE+ batteries. Always check the product specifications to see which battery is compatible.
Do I need to buy a battery and charger separately?
Many edgers are sold as bare tools, meaning they do not include a battery or charger. Some kits include them, but often at a higher price. Check the product listing to see what is included.
How do I maintain a brushless edger?
Keep the edger clean and check the line regularly. Replace the line when it is low. Also, keep the air vents clear of debris. For battery models, store batteries in a cool, dry place and charge them properly.
What is the difference between edging and trimming?
Edging creates a clean border between the lawn and hard surfaces like sidewalks. Trimming cuts grass in areas a mower can’t reach, such as around trees. Some tools can do both, but dedicated edgers have a specific cutting plane.
Can I use a brushless edger on thick weeds?
Yes, brushless motors have high torque, which helps cut through thick weeds. However, the line diameter also matters. A thicker line can handle tougher vegetation. For very thick weeds, you may need a heavier-duty edger.
Our take
For most homeowners, the DEWALT 20V MAX XR offers the best blend of portability and performance. Its brushless motor and automatic feed make edging easy, and the battery system is reliable. If you have a large yard and don’t mind a cord, the Greenworks 12 Amp is the strongest choice.
