The 5 Best Lawn Edgers of 2025: Reviews for a Razor-Sharp Yard
Have you ever driven past a house and been struck by the almost impossibly clean lines of the lawn? It’s a subtle detail, but it’s powerful. That razor-sharp separation between the turf and the concrete is the secret handshake of a truly meticulous homeowner. It’s the frame that turns a nice lawn into a stunning landscape painting. While a mower does the broad strokes and a trimmer cleans the corners, the lawn edger is the fine-tipped pen that provides the defining lines.
Many homeowners mistakenly believe this look is only achievable by expensive lawn care services, or they try to achieve it by awkwardly turning a string trimmer on its side. While that method can work in a pinch, it often results in wobbly lines, scalped turf, and a shower of dirt. A dedicated lawn edger is a game-changing tool designed for one purpose: to create a perfect, vertical cut with power and precision.
To find the absolute best edgers for the American homeowner, our team went to work. We tested over a dozen models, from heavy-duty cordless machines to classic manual tools. We cut miles of edges on sidewalks, driveways, and garden beds, evaluating each tool on its power to slice through tough, overgrown turf, its ability to create a straight line, and the ergonomic features that make the job a pleasure rather than a pain. This guide is the result of that obsessive effort, designed to give you the expert insight needed to choose the perfect tool to frame your masterpiece.
The Edger vs. The Trimmer: A Tale of Two Cuts
This is the single most common question we get: “Can’t I just use my string trimmer to edge?” The answer is yes, you *can*, but it’s like using a butter knife to chop an onion. It gets the job done, but the result is messy, and a chef’s knife would do it better and faster. Here’s the crucial difference:
- A **string trimmer** uses a rapidly spinning nylon line to *tear* through grass. When turned vertically, it creates a rough, often uneven edge and struggles against compacted soil and thick roots. For a deep dive on these essential tools, check out our guide to the 5 best lawn trimmers.
- A **lawn edger** uses a vertical, high-speed metal blade to *slice* through turf and soil like a miniature circular saw. This creates a clean, deep, and perfectly straight trench that grass has a much harder time growing across.
The benefits of this clean slice are more than just aesthetic. A proper edge creates a physical barrier that helps prevent invasive grass like Bermuda from creeping into your flower beds. It also creates a small channel that can help contain mulch and prevent soil washout during heavy rain. It is a key tool in any homeowner’s arsenal, which is why it’s always on our list of the best lawn tools for your home.
Best Overall: EGO Power+ ME0800 8-Inch Edger Attachment
| Power: | 56V (Requires EGO Power Head) |
| Blade Size: | 8 Inches |
| Depth Adjustment: | Up to 3 Inches |
| Weight: | 5 lbs (Attachment Only) |
| Guide Wheel: | Large, with Debris Guard |
| Key Feature: | Professional power and results within a top-tier battery ecosystem. |
The Verdict: Uncompromising Power and Precision
For homeowners who want the absolute best result with the convenience of a leading battery platform, the EGO Power+ Edger Attachment is the pinnacle. Paired with an EGO Power Head, it delivers monstrous torque that slices through the toughest, most compacted soil and overgrown turf like it’s nothing. It’s robust, easy to use, and delivers flawlessly professional lines every time.
Our In-Depth Analysis
Power & Performance: The 56V power from the EGO platform is legendary, and it’s on full display here. During our tests, we used this edger to carve a new edge on a neglected sidewalk that hadn’t been touched in years. The blade never bogged down, effortlessly churning through soil, roots, and thick grass. The 8-inch blade provides a deep, substantial cut. The large, clear debris guard is also highly effective, minimizing the amount of dirt and grass thrown back at the operator.
Ergonomics & Features: The genius of the EGO Multi-Head system is that you get a perfectly balanced tool. The edger attachment clicks in securely and feels like a dedicated machine. The standout feature is the depth adjustment knob. It’s large, easy to turn, and allows for precise control over the cutting depth up to 3 inches. The guide wheel is robust and tracks along concrete smoothly, making it incredibly easy to maintain a perfectly straight line, even for a beginner. This attachment system is a core reason EGO consistently ranks high in our tests, from this edger to the best lawn blowers.
- Incredible cutting power for any condition
- Part of the best-in-class EGO 56V ecosystem
- Excellent depth control and guide wheel
- Durable, professional-grade construction
- More space-efficient than a separate dedicated tool
- Requires ownership of an EGO Power Head
- Higher total cost of entry
Best for Power: Greenworks Pro 80V 8-Inch Cordless Edger
| Power: | 80V (2.0Ah Battery) |
| Blade Size: | 8 Inches |
| Depth Adjustment: | Up to 2.5 Inches |
| Weight: | 13.6 lbs |
| Guide Wheel: | Pivoting Rear Wheel |
| Key Feature: | Massive voltage for the most demanding jobs. |
The Verdict: The Overgrown Edge Demolisher
If your primary challenge is power—if you’re reclaiming severely overgrown edges or dealing with dense, clay-like soil—the Greenworks Pro 80V Edger is your weapon of choice. This is a dedicated, standalone tool that harnesses a massive 80 volts to deliver uncompromising torque, making it the most powerful cordless stick edger we tested.
Our In-Depth Analysis
Power & Performance: The 80V power is immediately noticeable. This edger feels like a commercial-grade tool. It has a brushless motor that delivers instant blade speed and doesn’t slow down, even when we pushed it through thick mats of Bermuda grass roots. The 8-inch, 4-tip steel blade pulverizes soil and turf, leaving a clean, deep trench in its wake. For the toughest first edge of the season, this tool will save you an incredible amount of time and effort.
Ergonomics & Features: This is a heavier tool, but the weight is manageable thanks to its good balance. The pivoting rear wheel is an interesting design choice that provides stability. The variable speed trigger is a welcome feature, allowing you to feather the power for more delicate areas or unleash its full force on tough spots. The tool-free depth adjustment is quick and easy to use. Being part of the Greenworks 80V system is a huge plus, as it shares batteries with a full line of equally powerful outdoor equipment.
- The most powerful cordless stick edger we tested
- Brushless motor for high efficiency and durability
- Variable speed trigger for precise control
- Robust build quality for longevity
- Heavier than 40V or 56V models
- Can be overkill for small, well-maintained yards
Best Value (Corded): WORX WG896 12 Amp Electric Lawn Edger
| Power: | 12 Amp Corded Electric |
| Blade Size: | 7.5 Inches |
| Depth Adjustment: | 3-Position (1″, 1.25″, 1.5″) |
| Weight: | 14 lbs |
| Guide Wheel: | Three-Wheel System |
| Key Feature: | Incredible power and stability for a very low price. |
The Verdict: The Budget Powerhouse
For homeowners who want maximum power and precision without the cost of a high-end battery system, the corded WORX WG896 is an absolute steal. Its 12-amp motor delivers relentless power, and the three-wheel design provides unmatched stability, making it incredibly easy for even a novice to create perfectly straight lines. If you don’t mind managing an extension cord, you won’t find better performance for the price.
Our In-Depth Analysis
Power & Performance: The beauty of a corded tool is unlimited runtime and consistent power, and the 12-amp motor in this WORX edger is a testament to that. It’s a true workhorse. We found its cutting power to be on par with the most powerful cordless models. The 7.5-inch blade spins at 4700 RPM, chewing through compacted soil and tough overgrowth without hesitation. It also features a blade wear indicator, which is a nice touch.
Ergonomics & Features: The three-wheel setup is what makes this tool so user-friendly. The two rear wheels provide a stable base, while the front guide wheel tracks perfectly along the edge of the concrete. You’re not balancing the tool; you’re simply guiding it. This makes it far less fatiguing to use than a two-wheel stick edger. The pivoting handle allows you to find a comfortable grip, and the 3-position depth adjustment is simple to use. While it lacks the go-anywhere convenience of cordless, its performance and ease of use are truly exceptional for its price point. WORX consistently delivers innovative tools, from this edger to their famous robotic mowers detailed in our Worx Landroid review.
- Exceptional cutting power from the 12-amp motor
- Three-wheel design provides superior stability
- Very easy for beginners to achieve straight lines
- Extremely affordable price point
- Limited by the length of your extension cord
- Cord management can be a hassle
Best Lightweight (Trimmer/Edger Combo): BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX EASYFEED
| Power: | 20V (Two 2.0Ah Batteries Included) |
| Type: | Trimmer/Edger Combo |
| Cutting Swath: | 12 Inches |
| Weight: | 5.7 lbs |
| Guide Wheel: | Yes, integrated edge guide |
| Key Feature: | Feather-light 2-in-1 tool for smaller yards. |
The Verdict: The Small Yard Specialist
For those with smaller lawns, townhome properties, or for whom weight is a primary concern, a dedicated, heavy-duty edger is overkill. The BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX EASYFEED is a brilliant 2-in-1 solution. It’s a capable string trimmer that, with a quick twist of the shaft, converts into a wheeled edger, providing far more control and cleaner lines than just turning a regular trimmer on its side.
Our In-Depth Analysis
Power & Performance: This is a 20V tool, so it’s not going to compete with the 80V Greenworks on raw power. However, for maintaining an already established edge or cutting through typical grass overgrowth, it’s more than sufficient. The EASYFEED button that advances the line on command is a nice feature. The magic happens when you engage the conversion. The shaft rotates, and a guide wheel drops down, instantly turning it into a stable, easy-to-guide edger.
Ergonomics & Features: At under 6 lbs, this tool is an absolute joy to handle. It causes virtually no arm or back strain, making lawn care accessible to everyone. The adjustable height and handle ensure a comfortable fit. The 2-speed control allows you to choose between more power (for edging) or longer runtime (for light trimming). For its intended use—small to medium-sized yards that don’t require extreme power—this versatile tool is a fantastic and affordable choice. It’s a perfect example of smart design for the everyday homeowner.
- Extremely lightweight and easy to use
- Clever 2-in-1 trimmer and wheeled edger design
- Very affordable, often comes with two batteries
- EASYFEED button is simple and reliable
- Not powerful enough for very tough or overgrown jobs
- Uses thinner string trimmer line, not a blade
Best Manual Edger: Radius Garden 206 PRO Ergonomic Edger
| Power: | Human! |
| Type: | Manual Half-Moon Edger |
| Blade Material: | Stainless Steel |
| Weight: | 4.4 lbs |
| Handle: | Ergonomic O-Handle |
| Key Feature: | Superior ergonomics for a classic, reliable tool. |
The Verdict: The Traditionalist’s Choice
Sometimes, the simplest tool is the best tool. For small garden beds, intricate curves, or for the homeowner who enjoys the quiet satisfaction of manual yard work, a high-quality half-moon edger is indispensable. The Radius Garden PRO Edger takes this classic design and perfects it with a smart, ergonomic handle that dramatically reduces stress on your hands and wrists.
Our In-Depth Analysis
Performance: A manual edger is all about the quality of the blade and the comfort of the handle. The Radius Garden’s stainless steel blade is sharp, durable, and rust-resistant. It sliced into our test lawn with surprising ease, especially in moist soil. The extra-wide, elevated forward step provides a secure platform for your foot, allowing you to use your body weight to drive the blade deep into the ground. It creates an incredibly clean, satisfying cut.
Ergonomics: The patented O-handle is the star of the show. It provides four times the gripping surface of a traditional D-handle, allowing for a more natural, less stressful hand position. We found this made a huge difference during longer sessions, virtually eliminating wrist strain. This isn’t a tool for edging a half-mile of sidewalk, but for defining garden beds, creating tree rings, or touching up small areas, its precision, simplicity, and reliability are unmatched. It’s a perfect complement to any lawn care routine, which you can learn more about in our Lawn Care 101 guide.
- Ergonomic handle reduces hand and wrist strain
- Creates precise, clean cuts, especially on curves
- No noise, fuel, or batteries required
- Durable stainless steel blade
- Affordable and will last a lifetime
- Requires significant physical effort
- Not practical for large properties or long, straight edges
The Ultimate Edger Buyer’s Guide
Choosing the right edger comes down to matching the tool’s features to your yard and your personal preferences. Here’s what to look for:
1. Power Source: Battery vs. Corded vs. Manual
- Battery (Cordless): This is the most popular choice for a reason. It offers the best combination of power and go-anywhere convenience. The main consideration is committing to a battery “ecosystem” (EGO, Greenworks, DEWALT, etc.) to save money on future tool purchases.
- Corded Electric: These models offer unlimited power and are often very affordable. Their only downside is the hassle of managing an extension cord, which makes them best suited for smaller yards.
- Manual: These require the most physical effort but offer precision, simplicity, and are very inexpensive. They are perfect for small, detailed jobs like garden beds.
2. The Guide Wheel: Your Key to Straight Lines
The guide wheel is arguably the most important feature on a powered edger. It’s a small wheel that runs along the hard surface (like the sidewalk) and keeps the blade at a consistent distance, ensuring a perfectly straight cut. Look for edgers with a sturdy, well-designed guide wheel. Some, like the WORX, even use a three-wheel system for maximum stability.
3. Blade & Depth Adjustment
A good edger allows you to easily adjust the depth of the cut. A deeper cut (2-3 inches) is great for the first edge of the season to establish a deep trench. A shallower cut (1-1.5 inches) is perfect for regular maintenance. Look for tool-free adjustment knobs or levers that make this process simple. Blade quality is also key; look for hardened steel blades that will hold their edge longer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I still need to edge if I have a robotic mower?
Yes, absolutely. This is one of the most common misconceptions about robotic mowing. While models from top brands like those in our best robotic lawn mowers guide do a fantastic job on the main turf, their cutting decks cannot reach the absolute edge of the lawn against a hard surface. Even models with “edge cut” features will leave a small strip of uncut grass. You will always need an edger or a trimmer to create that perfect, finished line. This applies to all brands, from those in our Worx Landroid review to premium models in our Kress robotic mowers reviews.
How often should I edge my lawn?
For a pristine look, most experts recommend a light maintenance edge every 2-3 mows. The first edge of the spring season will be the most difficult, requiring a deep cut to re-establish the line. After that, subsequent edging is much faster and easier. A quick pass every few weeks will prevent overgrowth and keep your lines looking sharp.
What is the best way to clean up after edging?
Edging, especially the first cut of the season, will kick up a significant amount of soil, grass, and debris onto your sidewalk or driveway. The most efficient way to clean this up is with a powerful leaf blower. A quick pass will blow all the debris back into the lawn, where it can be mulched by your mower. We recommend pairing your new edger with one of the best lawn blowers for a fast and professional cleanup.
Can edging help with weed and pest control?
Yes, in a way. A clean, deep edge creates a physical barrier that makes it more difficult for crawling insects and invasive grass or weeds from your lawn to creep into your garden beds. While it’s not a substitute for a dedicated lawn pest control strategy, it is one more tool in your integrated pest management arsenal. Similarly, it helps contain mulch and soil in your garden beds, preventing your carefully applied lawn fertilizer from washing away.
Frame Your Masterpiece
A lawn edger is the ultimate finishing tool. It’s a small investment in time and money that pays massive dividends in curb appeal and personal satisfaction. The clean, sharp lines it creates elevate your entire property, signaling a level of care and attention to detail that sets your home apart.
Whether you choose the raw power of a high-voltage cordless model or the quiet precision of a manual tool, we are confident that adding a dedicated edger to your routine will be a decision you won’t regret. We hope this guide has empowered you to choose with confidence and inspired you to create the sharpest lawn on the block.
Do you have a favorite edger or a pro tip we missed? Share it in the comments below!
