Core CGT400

Bottom line

The Core CGT400 harnesses the power of a gas trimmer in a quiet electric motor. Reviewers say it trims quickly and cleanly, although its edging performance is only average. In one comparison test, the CGT400 is the only cordless string trimmer with enough power to cut down thick weeds in one pass. Its rechargeable power cell has two speed settings and an extended runtime of up to 60 minutes.

Safety

Quiet, but heavy. Reviewers say the Core CGT400 is quieter than most, and a video at StringTrimmersDirect.com demonstrates its motor in action. According to the manufacturer, the CGT400 has an output of 57 decibels, about as loud as a bathroom exhaust fan.

The CGT400 has a trigger lockout switch that must be pressed before the motor can start with the trigger. This keeps the trim line from spinning before you're ready. A few owners say the 11-pound trimmer is tiring to use without a shoulder strap, which isn't available on this model.

Performance

Powerful enough for tougher jobs. Heavy-duty performance sets the Core CGT400 apart from other cordless string trimmers, according to reviewers. Joe Delulio, product expert at StringTrimmersDirect.com, says its power "rivals" many gas-powered string trimmers. It takes second place in a Popular Mechanics comparison test, where editors call it "smooth-cutting and powerful." It "looks and feels like a gas-engine trimmer, but it's blissfully quiet," they add.

The Core is equipped with dual .095-inch nylon lines and a 14-inch cutting head. "It has the power to handle tough edging jobs and tons of trimming work," says an owner at StringTrimmersDirect.com, although experts find it sometimes takes two sweeps when edging.

Ease of use

Handles similar to a gas string trimmer. The Core CGT400's innovative lithium-ion power cell has more power and a longer 30-minute runtime than typical batteries, experts say. Owners find that it lasts up to an hour depending on the power setting, adding that the CGT400's two speeds make it more versatile for different cutting situations. The included charger takes three hours to recharge the CGT400, but a one-hour charger is available separately.

At 11 pounds, the CGT400 is comparable to a gas trimmer, but owners say it's nicely balanced with no vibration. While the handle adjusts to different lengths, some users find the 59-inch shaft a little too long. Some add that the bump-feed is only average and the spool can be awkward to reload.

Durability

Long warranty. Core's five-year consumer warranty is one of the best on the market. The company also offers a two-year warranty for commercial use. Both experts and owners call the CGT400's construction heavy-duty, and several reviewers say it's tough enough for commercial landscaping. The trimmer is relatively new to the market, so few users post comments about lifespan.