Time was if you wanted a string trimmer that edges along walks as capably as it trims around trees, you had to buy a gas-powered model for $100 or more. That's no longer the case. Our recent ratings of string trimmers includes several new plug-in electric models that breeze through both tasks -- for about $60.

Meanwhile, manufacturers also are fielding lower-priced gas trimmers -- still the sales leader and the best choice for large properties where trimming needs to be done far from an electrical outlet or where tall grass and weeds might smite a corded model.

Our tests of gas and electric trimmers focused on their ability to trim near a wall, edge a vertical line along a walkway and cut tall grass and weeds. Most of the some two-dozen gas models we tested performed those tasks at least competently, as did several corded electrics. (We also tested a few cordless electric trimmers. They proved relatively anemic in grass, ill-suited for tougher weeds, and -- at $50 to $100 -- pricey for their performance.)

In addition, we assessed trimmers' handling and ease of use. Those with straight shafts, we found, can reach beneath shrubs more easily than curved-shaft models. They're also easier to handle for taller users and are less likely to spatter you with clippings. Curved-shaft trimmers trade a straight shaft's longer reach for easier maneuvering and -- often -- less weight. All our tested electric models have a curved shaft.

Trimmer features that can save time and effort include:

Rotating head. This lets you turn the trimmer for edging without having to change the handle position.

Easy starting. All electric trimmers feature push-button starting. Some gas-powered models from Echo, Stihl and Troy-Bilt use a spring-assist system that makes pulling a starter cord easier.

Clutch. Electric trimmers stop when you release the trigger. Many gas models have a clutch that disengages the cutting head when the engine is idling or being started.

Tangle protection. Tall grass and weeds can slow or stall a trimmer by wrapping around the top of its cutting head, especially if there's a gap between it and the mounting for the grass-debris guard. Models with a small gap or protective sleeve around the shaft avoided that problem in our tests.

Dual-line head. Two lines tend to cut more quickly and can handle heavier growth than single-line heads, since they do twice the work with each pass. All but the two lowest-rated gas trimmers we tested have dual-line heads. They're scarcer on electrics.

Among gas-powered trimmers, a couple of models combined comparatively low price with top-notch performance to earn distinction as CR Best Buys. The curved-shaft Homelite UT20004 ($70) was excellent at trimming and edging, and very good in tall grass and weeds. It lacks a clutch, however. Performing slightly poorer in the thick stuff, the straight-shaft Weed Eater FeatherLite SST25 ($100) was nonetheless a stellar trimmer and edger, and -- at just 10 pounds, sans gas -- one of the lighter gas models.

Other recommended gas trimmers include two top-rated Stihl models: the FS 45 ($140) and -- with spring-assist starting -- the FS 45 C ($170). Both are curved-shaft models. High-scoring straight-shaft trimmers included the Echo SRM-210i ($240) and Stihl FS 55 RC Easy2Start ($230) -- both feature spring-assist starting -- and the Husqvarna 125L ($200).

Corded electric trimmers we liked were the Troy-Bilt TB50 and the Ryobi EL15 RY41002. At just $60 each, they qualify as CR Best Buys. Choose the Troy-Bilt for excellent trimming and edging; the Ryobi for its rotating head. Both are dual-line models.

If you must have a cordless electric trimmer, the Black & Decker Grass Hog NST2018 ($100) was the better of an unimpressive bunch. It uses the same 18-volt batteries that power the manufacturer's drills and other tools.

First Published: April 30, 2006, 4:00 a.m.