WORX WG163.8 GT3.0 20V 12-Inch String Trimmer and Edger: specs and fit

The WORX GT3.0 (model WG163.8) is a cordless string trimmer with a 12-inch cutting swath that converts into a lawn edger. It runs on a 20V PowerShare battery, so there is no cord to manage and no fuel to mix. This page explains its main features and what to confirm before choosing it.

Trimmer and edger in one

For trimming, the head works the usual way: a spinning line cuts grass along fences, beds and borders. To edge, you pull the head off the shaft and twist it back on in the edging position, which WORX says takes a few seconds. Twin rubber edging wheels then roll along the pavement or bed edge to keep the line straight. The adjustable flower guard keeps the line away from plants and garden ornaments.

The 12-inch cutting diameter

A wider swath covers more ground per pass, while a narrower one is easier to manoeuvre among landscaping. WORX describes 12 inches as large enough for wide passes but still narrow enough for tight spots. The cutting line is WORX's DNA2 DoubleHelix, which the brand says is designed to reduce drag and resist snapping.

Command Feed line advance

Many trimmers feed line when you tap the head on the ground, or on a timer. The WG163.8 uses a push button: when you need fresh line, you press it. The brand calls this Command Feed. It generally means less wasted line and less bumping, though line still needs replacing when the spool runs out.

Reach and comfort

The head pivots 90°, which helps with trimming under shrubs or along a slope. The shaft is telescopic so taller users can lengthen it, and it slides in for storage. A multi-position handle lets you adjust your grip and gain leverage when bending down. The trimmer weighs 5.3 lb with the battery attached and measures about 36.3 inches long.

PowerShare battery

The kit has a 20V 2.0Ah battery and a 2A charger. WORX says the same battery fits more than 75 tools in its PowerShare range, including 20V, 40V and 80V products. The listing also mentions a blow speed of 120 mph. A 2.0Ah pack is a smaller capacity, so run time on thick grass will be shorter than with a larger pack, and a second battery is a common addition for bigger yards.

Who it suits

It suits owners of small to medium lawns who want a light tool for trimming and edging without separate machines. Anyone with a large property or thick, tall growth may want a higher-capacity battery or a more powerful tool.

What to check before you buy

• Battery range: if you already own WORX PowerShare batteries, check they are compatible.
• Yard size: consider run time with the 2.0Ah battery.
• Charging: confirm the charger and charging time in the manual.
• Line: check which spool and line size the head takes, and how to replace it.
• Height and weight: the telescoping shaft helps, but try the balance if you can.
• What's in the box: trimmer, edger wheels, spool, battery and charger are listed.

The short version

• A cordless 20V string trimmer with a 12-inch cutting diameter that converts to an edger.
• Push-button Command Feed line, a 90° pivoting head and a telescoping shaft.
• Weighs 5.3 lb with the battery attached.
• Includes a 2.0Ah battery, 2A charger, spool and edger wheels.
• Uses the PowerShare battery system, which WORX says fits over 75 tools.

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