Professional gas-powered string trimmers have their engines positioned on the top of the units, but few electric models take advantage of the benefits of a top-mounted design. The Troy-Bilt TB50CS 4.7-amp trimmer is one of the rare electric units with a top-mounted motor, combining a few of the benefits of a gas-powered trimmer with the convenience, light weight and Earth-friendliness of an electric. And for less than $60, that's quite a combination.

The motor placement makes for a very well balanced tool. It feels similar to a gas unit, with most of the 6.6-pound weight up on top and less near the trimming head, so it's easier to maneuver; the curved shaft makes it even easier to get into tough-to-reach areas or trim hilly areas. Positioning the motor high on the trimmer also keeps it away from dust and debris, increasing the motor's life and cutting down on maintenance. The 4.7-amp motor is a bit more powerful than many other trimmers' in this price range, and a good choice for light to moderate trimming.

The Troy-Bilt TB50CS 4.7-amp trimmer's other top feature is its generous 15-inch dual-line cutting width, which plows a wider swath of tall grass or weeds than most trimmers. We'd like to see a heavier-duty line on this unit. It uses .065-inch line, which is common, but still among the thinnest available. It employs a fairly standard bump-and-feed line system, which releases more line when you tap the head on the ground.

This model's primary handle is attached to the motor, so you're going to feel a little more vibration than you would with a bottom-mounted trimmer. It also has an adjustable D-handle, which can be moved up and down or turned for either left- or right-handed users. The Troy-Bilt TB50CS 4.7-amp trimmer is covered by a 2-year warranty.


Pros: Top-mounted motor, wide 15-inch cutting width, moderate price
Cons: Lightweight line, moderate power