What’s the Difference Between a Trimmer, Brushcutter and Hedge Trimmer: Tools for Lawn and Garden Care

When buying a grass trimmer, many people encounter unfamiliar terms: brushcutter, petrol trimmer, hedge trimmer... All of them look similar but serve different purposes and have different technical capabilities. To avoid buying a tool that’s too weak for thick vegetation — or overspending on unnecessary power — it's important to understand the key differences. This article explains how trimmers, brushcutters, and hedge trimmers differ and which tool is best suited for your yard.

Grass Trimmer: Lightweight and Precise

A trimmer is a compact tool with a curved or straight shaft and a spool of line. It’s ideal for regular lawn care — trimming edges along paths, around flowerbeds, fences, or trees. It's a complement to a lawn mower, not a replacement.

• Low power (300–800 W for electric models, up to 1.0 HP for petrol);
• Only suitable for soft, short grass;
• Compact and lightweight — easy to handle with one hand;
• Cutting element: nylon line (no blades);
• Best for small lawns and light-duty garden work.

Conclusion: if your goal is to maintain neat lawn edges, a trimmer is perfect. Just don’t expect it to cut through dense or tall grass.

Brushcutter: A Versatile Tool for Tougher Jobs

A brushcutter is a more powerful version of a trimmer, typically petrol-powered. It handles not only soft grass but also tall, dry, and thick vegetation. Brushcutters come with both line spools and metal blades or discs for dealing with weeds and overgrowth.

• Power output: 1.2 to 3 HP;
• Compatible with various blade and disc types;
• Rigid straight shaft with gearbox;
• Shoulder strap for weight distribution;
• Ideal for uneven terrain, fields, and roadside trimming.

Conclusion: if your plot is regularly overgrown with weeds, nettles, or you haven’t trimmed in a while — a brushcutter is the best solution.

Hedge Trimmer: For Shrubs and Woody Branches

A hedge trimmer is a completely different tool often confused with brushcutters. In fact, it’s not a cutter for grass, but a powered garden shear. It’s used to trim hedges, shrubs, and thin tree branches, working like a pair of scissors with a motor.

• Blade-style cutter instead of a line or disc;
• Operates like motorized pruning shears;
• Suitable for branches up to 2 cm thick;
• Available in electric, cordless, or petrol versions;
• Not a replacement for a trimmer or brushcutter!

Conclusion: if the main job is trimming bushes, hedges, or vines — a hedge trimmer is the right tool.

Comparison Table

How to Choose: Match the Tool to the Task

If your yard is mostly lawn — a simple trimmer will do the job. If it's overgrown with thick weeds or tall grass — go with a brushcutter. And if your focus is trimming shrubs, grapevines, or hedges — pick a hedge trimmer.

At 130.com.ua, you’ll find a wide range of trimmers, brushcutters, and hedge trimmers from trusted brands — including electric and petrol models. Our experts will help you choose the perfect tool for your yard, whether it's a small garden or a large rural plot.