Portable Electric Lawn Edgers That Make Yard Work Easy
The WORX 20V Cordless Edger is our top pick for most yards. It offers cordless convenience, a powerful motor, and an adjustable wheel for easy control. Its main limitation is that battery life may not be enough for very large lawns.
Trimming lawn edges along sidewalks and driveways gives your yard a crisp, manicured look. Portable electric edgers make this task quicker and easier than manual tools.
We compared seven top-selling models to find the best balance of power, runtime, and convenience. Whether you prefer cordless freedom or the unlimited run of a cord, this guide helps you choose.
What we recommend
WORX 20V Cordless Edger (WG163)
This WORX edger is lightweight and easy to handle. It has a powerful motor that handles tough edges. The adjustable wheel lets you set the cutting depth. Owners like its battery life and performance.
Pros
- Cordless for easy portability
- Strong motor for its size
- Adjustable depth for versatility
Cons
- Battery and charger sold separately
- Not ideal for very large lawns
BLACK+DECKER 7.5 Amp Corded Edger (BE1200)
This BLACK+DECKER edger offers consistent power with a 7.5 amp motor. It has an adjustable base to set the cutting depth. The corded design means no battery recharge time. It is a reliable choice for small to medium yards.
Pros
- Affordable price
- Powerful motor
- Lightweight and easy to maneuver
Cons
- Requires extension cord
- Cord can be a hassle
Greenworks 8-Inch 2-in-1 Edger (08012)
Greenworks offers a compact edger that also works as a trencher. Its 6.5 amp motor provides enough power for most edging tasks. The 8-inch blade makes quick work of overgrown edges. It is easy to store and handle.
Pros
- 2-in-1 functionality
- Lightweight and compact
- Affordable
Cons
- Corded only
- Not as powerful as larger models
Sun Joe 7.5 Amp Electric Edger (TJ601E)
The Sun Joe edger features a 7.5 amp motor and a durable steel blade. It can cut up to 2 inches deep for a clean, defined edge. The adjustable wheel helps maintain a straight line. Users appreciate its solid construction.
Pros
- Deep cutting capability
- Sturdy build
- Easy to adjust
Cons
- Cord management can be tricky
- Heavier than some cordless models
Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Edger (P20100)
This Ryobi edger is part of the 18V ONE+ system, so it shares batteries with other tools. It has a 6.5-inch cutting width and an adjustable depth. The brushless motor offers efficient power. Owners like the convenience of a shared battery platform.
Pros
- Battery works with other Ryobi tools
- Brushless motor for longer life
- Adjustable depth
Cons
- Battery not included
- Narrower cutting width
EGO 56V Lithium-Ion Cordless Edger (PE1000)
The EGO edger delivers professional-grade performance with 56V power. It has a 7.5-inch blade and a weather-resistant construction. The battery provides up to 60 minutes of runtime. It is a premium option for homeowners with big lawns.
Pros
- High power and runtime
- Durable build
- Easy to push along edges
Cons
- Expensive
- Heavier than others
DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Edger (DCE800D1)
The DeWalt edger is powered by a 20V MAX battery and features a 7.5-inch blade. It has a compact design that is easy to control. The edger includes a battery and charger in the kit. Users find it effective for maintenance edging.
Pros
- Battery and charger included
- Good power
- Easy to maneuver
Cons
- Battery runtime may be short
- Not as rugged as EGO
Side by side
| # | Model | Power Source | Best for | Score | Price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | WORX 20V Cordless Edger (WG163) | 20V battery | Best overall for cordless convenience | 9.4 | Check price |
| 2 | BLACK+DECKER 7.5 Amp Corded Edger (BE1200) | Corded electric | Best budget corded option | 8.8 | Check price |
| 3 | Greenworks 8-Inch 2-in-1 Edger (08012) | Corded electric | Best for tight spaces | 8.6 | Check price |
| 4 | Sun Joe 7.5 Amp Electric Edger (TJ601E) | Corded electric | Best for deep edging | 8.4 | Check price |
| 5 | Ryobi 18V ONE+ Cordless Edger (P20100) | 18V battery | Best for battery system compatibility | 8.9 | Check price |
| 6 | EGO 56V Lithium-Ion Cordless Edger (PE1000) | 56V battery | Best for large yards | 9.2 | Check price |
| 7 | DeWalt 20V MAX Cordless Edger (DCE800D1) | 20V battery | Best for quick, lightweight edging | 8.7 | Check price |
What to look for
Common questions
Can I use a portable electric edger on wet grass?
It is not recommended. Wet grass can clog the blade and create a slip hazard. Always edge dry grass for the best results.
How deep can a portable edger cut?
Most edgers allow you to adjust the depth from about 0.5 to 2 inches. Check the product specifications for the maximum depth.
Do cordless edgers have enough power for tough soil?
Many cordless models with brushless motors, like the EGO and WORX, can handle typical soil. For extremely hard soil, a corded edger may be more powerful.
Are edgers safe to use on concrete edges?
Yes, but you should avoid hitting the concrete directly with the blade. Adjust the depth to avoid striking the hard surface.
What is the difference between an edger and a trimmer?
An edger uses a rigid blade to cut a clean vertical edge along sidewalks and driveways. A trimmer uses a flexible line for general trimming and cannot create as sharp an edge.
How long does a battery last on a cordless edger?
Battery life ranges from 15 minutes to over an hour depending on the model and battery capacity. The EGO offers up to 60 minutes, while others may last less.
Can I edge with a string trimmer instead?
You can, but it is more difficult to get a straight, clean edge. An edger is specifically designed for that task and is more efficient.
Do I need to sharpen the blade on my edger?
Yes, over time the blade can dull. Check the blade regularly and sharpen or replace it if needed for clean cuts.
Is a corded edger better for large yards?
If you have a large yard and don’t want to stop to recharge, a corded edger provides continuous power. However, you need a long extension cord and must manage it carefully.
What safety gear should I wear when edging?
Always wear safety glasses to protect your eyes from debris. Hearing protection is also recommended, especially for corded models. Wear closed-toe shoes for foot protection.
Final word
For most homeowners, the WORX 20V Cordless Edger offers the best combination of portability, ease of use, and performance. If you have a very large yard, the EGO 56V is worth the investment for its extended runtime and power. For budget-conscious buyers, the BLACK+DECKER corded edger delivers reliable results without breaking the bank.
