WORX WG170 3-in-1 cordless string trimmer: features and who it suits

The WORX WG170 GT Revolution is a 20V cordless string trimmer that converts into an in-line edger and a small mower for strips your main mower can't reach. It's aimed at homeowners who want to trim, edge and tidy a lawn with one battery tool instead of three. Here's how the conversions work and what the specs mean.

One tool, three jobs

As a string trimmer, it cuts grass and weeds around fences, trees and beds. The cutting width is 12 inches (about 30 cm), so each pass covers roughly a foot, and the motor runs at 7,600 revolutions per minute.

As an in-line edger, the head turns so the line cuts vertically along a path, driveway or bed border, giving the lawn a clean edge.

As a mini mower, it rolls on its support wheels, which are included, so you can trim narrow strips alongside fences, walls and beds that a full-size mower can't get into. It isn't a replacement for a lawn mower on open grass, but it saves dragging one out for awkward corners.

Command Feed: fresh line at the push of a button

String trimmer line wears down as it cuts. Many trimmers feed more by bumping the head on the ground or by stopping to pull it out by hand. The WG170 uses WORX's Command Feed: you press a button and it feeds out more line, so you can keep going without stopping. Three spools come in the box, along with a spool holder.

Finding a comfortable position

Seven handle adjustments and six rotating head settings help you set the trimmer to your height and reach awkward spots, such as under shrubs or along a slope. The tool weighs 5.5 lb (about 2.5 kg). Weight and balance matter more than they first seem on a trimmer, because you hold it out in front of you for the whole job. WORX describes it as comfortable enough to use all afternoon.

Batteries, run time and charging

Two 20V, 2.0Ah batteries come in the box. Amp-hours (Ah) describe a battery's capacity: at the same voltage, a higher Ah figure means longer run time. WORX says the two included batteries are enough for a typical quarter-acre lawn, which is about 1,000 square metres. Run time in practice depends on how thick the grass is and how much edging you do.

The listed charging time is five hours, so it's worth charging both batteries the day before a bigger job. The batteries belong to the WORX Power Share system, so they also fit other WORX 20V tools.

What's in the box and who it suits

Along with the trimmer and two batteries, you get a charger, three spools, the support wheels, a safety guard, a flower guard and a spool holder. The safety guard deflects clippings and debris; the flower guard helps keep the line away from plants you want to keep.

It suits homeowners with small to medium lawns who trim, edge and tidy the yard with one cordless tool. Like most 20V string trimmers, it's designed for grass and light weeds rather than thick brush.

What to check before you buy

• Lawn size: WORX's quarter-acre guide for two batteries, and whether you'd want a spare for a bigger yard.
• Fit: that the adjustable handle and head settings suit your height and the way you work.
• Edging: the length of paths and borders you want to edge.
• Spools: that replacement spools of the right type are easy for you to get.
• Safety: eye protection and sturdy footwear are standard advice for any trimmer; follow the manual.
• Other tools: whether you already own, or plan to add, WORX 20V Power Share tools.

The short version

• A 20V cordless string trimmer with a 12-inch cutting width and a 7,600 rpm motor.
• Converts into an in-line edger and, with its support wheels, a mini mower.
• Command Feed gives fresh line at the push of a button.
• Seven handle and six head settings; weighs 5.5 lb.
• Two 2.0Ah batteries (WORX says enough for a quarter-acre lawn), a charger and three spools included.

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