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What is the Difference Between A Line Trimmer and A Whipper Snipper?

You probably have heard about these two names thrown around for a device that’s for cutting grass. So what are the main differences between a line trimmer and a whipper snipper? Is it only the name, or are there other differences? Does it matter where you are from and what language you use?

Looking for the best whipper snipper in Australia? Checking our buying guide can help you.

The first thing to know is that they both cut grass, but not in exactly the same way. A line trimmer uses an electric motor to move a rotating blade back and forth across the ground. This creates a circular path of cut grass. The grass is pulled into the blades of the rotating cutter by centrifugal force. Then the grass is pushed out of the path of the rotating blade.

A whipper snipper has a spinning blade at the end of a long handle. It can be used like a lawn mower, with the blade moving forward as you push the machine over the grass. Or it can be used like a hedge clipper, with the blade swinging up and down as you pull the machine along.

So which one should I buy? That depends on your needs. If you want to trim grass close to trees, shrubs, fences, etc., then a whipper snipper will work best. But if you just need to cut grass, then a line trimmer will do the job better.

If you’re looking for more information on how to choose the right tool for your yard, check out our article below.

What is a Line Trimmer?

A line trimmer is a type of rotary-powered garden tool that cuts grass, weeds, and small plants. They are designed to make quick passes over the area being trimmed, leaving behind a clean edge. [1]

Line trimmers come in different sizes and shapes, depending on their intended purpose. Some models are meant to be handheld; others can be mounted to your body so that they can be moved easily around the yard. Most models also include attachments such as edgers, side burners, and string trimmers.

Line trimmers usually consist of three parts: a power source (usually electricity), a drive shaft, and a cutting head. The cutting head is attached to the drive shaft, which spins inside the housing.  As this happens, the grass and weeds get caught between the cutting head and are sliced off.

Line trimmer from Black Decker hanging on a wall

How does a line trimmer work?

When you turn on a line trimmer, the motor starts to spin the drive shaft. The drive shaft connects to the cutting head, which is connected to the cutting mechanism. When the cutting head spins, the cutting mechanism pulls grass and weeds through the teeth, slicing them off.

What is a Whipper Snipper?

A whipper snapper is a type of rotational-powered garden tool that cuts grass and weeds. They are designed to cut grass and weeds quickly and efficiently. They are similar to a line trimmer, except they don’t have a cutting head. Instead, they have a spinning blade at the tip of a long handle. [2]

Whippers snappers are great tools for people who want to keep their lawns short and neat. They can be used to trim grass, bushes, hedges, and even flowers. They can also be used to remove unwanted growth from sidewalks, patios, and driveways.

What’s the Biggest Difference Between the Two Choices?

The biggest difference between line trimmers and whipper snippers is the size of the cutting head. A line trimmer has a larger cutting head than a whipper snipper. So if you plan on using your line trimmer for large areas, you’ll probably need a bigger model. On the other hand, if you only need to trim a few feet of grass or weed, a whipper snipper may be all you need.

Another major difference is that the whipper snippers have a straight shaft while the line trimmers will be bent. This means that the whipper snipper won’t be able to reach places where the line trimmer can. And the angle that it has makes it better for making edges.

Which One Should You Buy?

There are many factors to consider when choosing a line trimmer or a whipper snipper, including price, features, and ease of use. If you’re looking for something simple, then a whipper snipper might be right for you. But if you’re looking for something more powerful, you should choose a line trimmer.

Keep in mind that all of this is decided, but what you actually need from this device as both works perfectly for their intended jobs. So take these things into consideration and make a properly informed choice so that you get the tools that work best for you.

Closing Thoughts

So there we go! We hope that you found our guide helpful. Now that you know the differences between line trimmers and whipper snippers, you should be able to decide which one is best for you.

If you have any questions about either of these devices, feel free to ask us in the comments section below.

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