Many homeowners are looking for the best Weed Eater Head to replace their current string trimmer head, and we’re here to help.
Fortunately, Replacement Trimmer Heads are easily interchangeable and often significantly improve upon the original factory-supplied trimmer head.
Today, there are many options, including an old-fashioned Bump-Feed head, a Speed-Feed head designed for specific brands, and a Universal speed-feed head that fits most top-rated string trimmers.
Let’s find an improvement over your current trimmer head, something you can rely on, and a weed-eater replacement head that works with your equipment.
Today, the list of weed eater heads – including speed-feed trimmer heads is top-rated and still growing.
New designs and engineering in replacement trimmer heads have transformed this product from “the king of frustration” to as simple to change as a lightbulb.
Today, we’ll show you the 8 Best “Universal” trimmer head replacement products. These heads are the best on the market and will fit almost any weed eater.
If you don’t find the exact trimmer head you want, or don’t want to risk ordering the wrong one, see the end of our article for links to the Best “Brand-Specific” string trimmer replacement head models.
These trimmer heads or Trimmer Line Spools replace trimmer heads on specific string trimmer brands.
The Best Weed Eater Replacement Heads generally fall into Three Categories:
- “Fixed-line”
- “Bump-feed”
- “Automatic (also called Speed-feed).“
Type #1). “Speed-Feed” (Automatic) Trimmer Head:
Our Favorite Choice By Far. Speed-feed heads, sometimes called Automatic heads, are usually the most expensive replacement heads, and for good reason.
They hold a good amount of heavyweight .095 trimmer line, and changing a trimmer head takes about 30 seconds.
Be sure to see the (Editor’s Choice Below) and the ECHO/Shindaiwa Trimmer Head Video – you will be amazed at how quick and easy it is to change the trimmer line.
A speed-feed head includes a built-in winding mechanism that makes speedy work of weed-eater change-outs.
With a speed-feed head, users automatically feed the line into the trimmer as it winds onto the spool without removing the trimmer head. Watch the video to see how fast and easy re-spooling is.
Speed-feed heads offer the best combination of speed and convenience, so landscape maintenance crews most often use them.
Type #2) “Fixed-line” Trimmer Head:
This replacement head uses pre-cut lengths of trimmer line held in place by a locking mechanism. This head design does not require manually winding the trimmer line onto a spool.
Type #3) “Bump-Feed” Trimmer Head:
Even the best bump-feed trimmer head requires winding the trimmer line, but because the trimmer line on each spool has a larger capacity, you can go much longer between string changes.
However, because of the extensive line volume required for a bump head, the trimmer line for bump head trimmers is usually a .065 lightweight trimmer line rather than the heavyweight .80 or .95 trimmer line.
In our opinion, bump-feed heads are the least reliable and often fail to deliver consistent trimmer line.
“Optional” String Trimmer Heads:
Steel Blade Design
Certain companies offer a replacement trimmer head with “Steel blades” instead of a string trimmer line. A steel blade replacement head is generally used for trimming thicker weeds or brush. See the Options below.
Plastic Blade Design
Alternatively, some replacement heads offer “Plastic blades.” While not offering steel blades, these heads are designed for heavier-duty cutting of thicker grass or weeds, unlike traditional trimmer lines. See the options below.
Best “Universal” Trimmer Head Replacement
The following list includes The Best Weed Eater Replacement Head options, most of which are compatible with every String Trimmer brand.
We always recommend consulting your brand’s specifications to ensure the replacement head will fit your weed-eater model.
Editor’s Pick: Shindaiwa- “Universal” Speed-Feed
The Echo/Shindaiwa Speed Feed 400 Bump-To-Advance Replacement head is designed to fit Echo curved- and straight-shaft trimmers.
It is also compatible with many other weed eaters, including Stihl, Ryobi, Black & Decker, and Husqvarna, to name a few.
With the new and improved speed-feed design from Shindaiwa, you feed 20ft. Of .095 trimmer line into the spool, pull equal 10’ lengths to either side, turn the spool cap to wind up string – and you’re done – a rapid change out.
Note: the same parent company owns the Echo and Shindaiwa brands –
The speed-feed heads are identical and are branded under the Echo & Shindaiwa names.
Echo/Shindaiwa Speed Feed (Video) – See How Fast it Loads!
Bottom line: If you have a large lot and do a lot of weed whacking, this is the replacement head you want—assuming it is compatible with your string trimmer model.
Most users claim this is a “one-and-done” replacement head, which is why many professional landscapers use it.
All you need on hand is an extra spool of string trimmer line. .095-gauge trimmer line is recommended; however, this trimmer head will accept up to .105-gauge line. If you need more trimmer line, check out this Amazon link for the Gator line, which includes 680 Feet of .095 trimmer line.
It’s no wonder professionals love this speed-feed trimmer head!
Echo Speed Feed Head
Runner Up: WW EZ Lock
Why We Like It
In a twist on the fixed-line concept, the WW EZ Lock trimmer head uses a loop of .095 trimmer line-oriented pieces.
These replacement trimmer line pieces are inserted or removed using the two locking levers on the trimmer head body, making line changes quick and easy.
This model fits approximately 99 percent of gas trimmers, including straight- and curved-shaft models.
Our Take Away
We think it’s hard to beat the WW EZ Lock trimmer head for the mone,y and with fantastic user reviews. WW EZ offers fixed lines that allow you to keep the replacement head and change the trimmer line pieces individually.
Because of this feature and its fantastic longevity, WW EZ is considered a good choice for professional landscapers.
WW-EZ Trimmer Head
Best Value: Pivotrim – “Maxpower”
Why We Like It
The Pivotrim Maxpower Fixed-Line head is a well-constructed weed wacker trimmer head that fits practically any modern string trimmer brand.
With its “pre-packaged” clips of powerful .095 trimmer line – and pivoting head – the Pivotrim Maxpower head reduces line breakage by flexing when lines hit a solid object.
The Pivotrim replacement head is also straightforward to install and comes with various accessories, making it suitable for almost any trimmer configuration.
Our Takeaway
Some reviews claim this head lasted them over a year. Of course, the duration will depend on your specific uses.
This Pivot trimmer head is easily one of the best replacement trimmer heads on the market, thanks to its convenience and ease of use.
It is an easy-load trimmer head that uses pre-cut line pieces, eliminating the hassles of a standard bump-feed spool.
After trying this fixed-line trimmer head design, you may say “goodbye forever” to conventional “line trimmer spools.”
Pivotrim Trimmer Head (Video)
Pivot-Trim
Best “Plastic Blade” – Weed Warrior Replacement Head
Why We Like It
Turning away from a fixed trimmer head, we have created a unique replacement head with three plastic blades instead of a string trimmer line.
The Weed Warrior 14867B is meant to quickly and easily cut thick, high grass and light brush. While the blades on this head will eventually wear out, they can be easily replaced by releasing the push-button release on the trimmer head.
Our research found that new blades change more quickly than traditional trimmer line spools.
Our Take Away
With its unique design and great reviews, we think the Weed Warrior 14867B is a good option for homeowners who regularly deal with dense grass and light brush.
The blades are wear-resistant, making them preferable to the traditional bump-feed trimmer line design, especially for heavy work.
Weed Warrior
Best Combo Blade & Trimmer Line Combo: Pivotrim – “Rino Tuff”
Why We Like It
This head fits most gas trimmers. This unique blade-and-line replacement head combination offers the best of a regular .095 fixed-line head and a bladed trimmer head.
The line efficiently cuts through weeds and grasses, and the blades can be attached when it’s time to enter the brush.
Each line section is mounted on a swivel to reduce breakage, and the entire assembly can be added to a trimmer without installation tools.
Our Take Away
Combining two useful cutting systems, the Pivotrim-Rino Tuff offers versatility and robust cutting power at a hard-to-beat price. It’s a great option if you’re looking for an excellent trimmer head for all occasions.
If we were to recommend a “premium upgrade” in our fixed-line replacement head lineup, it might be this one.
Pivot-Trim
Best Steel Blade for Brush: Grass Gator 4680
Why We Like It
The 4680 Grass Gator trimmer head fits almost any gas trimmer and includes a steel-bladed head for tackling heavy weeds and brush. When mounted, this head can make short work of dense weed cover.
It is also among the most substantial and durable replacement heads on the market, weighing just over one pound.
Our Take Away
The Grass Gator 4680 is excellent for removing unruly weeds, even on huge properties. However, for optimal results, it should be mounted on a reasonably powerful string trimmer.
The manufacturer also recommends using this steel blade head for gas trimmers 25cc or higher.
Gator Head – String Trimmer Replacement
Best Wire Trimmer Blade: IRmm Wire Replacement Head
Why We Like It
This 8″ Diameter trimmer head with Unbreakable Wire cutting is perfect for heavy-duty weed and brush trimming.
Our Take Away
While innovative and more unique than the Gator model on this list, the IRmm wire weed trimmer head is an incredible option for your next replacement trimmer head. It offers even more capability than traditional trimmer line or plastic blade options.
We’ve found that this trimmer head is durable, easy to use, and well-suited for homeowners who frequently trim heavy brush and grass. Use caution when making sure it is compatible with your trimmer.
“Great user reviews” for trimming heavy weeds or brush, but many for everyday grass or light weeds; we recommend a conventional trimmer head instead.
IRmm Wire Trimmer Head
Best “Branded” Trimmer Heads and Spools
The following Replacement Heads or Spools Are Made for Specific String Trimmer Brands:
Oregon Gator SpeedLoad: For Stihl and Husqvarna Brand Trimmers
Why We Like It
Another variant of a fixed-line head is the Oregon Gator SpeedLoad, which uses a “pre-coiled” disk with a .095 upgraded trimmer line.
The spool, which can be loaded in 20 seconds, requires No Tools or Winding, making this patented system “frustration-free.”
Like other universal trimmer head replacements, the Oregon Gator SpeedLoad is highly versatile and reportedly fits about 95 percent of gas string trimmers on the market.
It should be noted that this model does not work as an electric string trimmer replacement head.
Our Take Away
Given its unique and innovative solution to winding a line onto a spool, the Oregon Gator SpeedLoad stands out. This model dramatically improves the trimming capabilities of most machines and makes it easy to remove lawn weeds.
While the manufacturer claims it fits 95% of Weed Eaters, the specs list only the Big 3 and a few others. If you have questions, contact Oregon Mfg. to confirm your size.
OREGON TRIMMER HEAD
DeWalt Trimmer Head – The “Quickfeed” by DeWalt
Why We Like It
DeWalt should include its QuickFeed trimmer head when selling its new string trimmers.
While this replacement head is not considered a Speed-Feed Head, it does fit all DeWalt trimmers and is a vast improvement over the bump-feed heads that their weed eaters are shipped with.
The Dewalt trimmer head holds a massive 20 Feet of .080 Line and will help you meet your trimming requirements.
DeWalt Quickfeed Trimmer Head (Video)
Our Take Away
Ok, Sparky called it a Quickload in the video – It is a Quickfeed head, but I will give him a pass :)
And while we prefer the Echo and Universal speed-feed head method over the manual ratcheting method of the DeWalt Quickfeed head, the Quickfeed is easy once you’ve done it a few times.
DeWalt – Quick Feed TRIMMER HEAD
EGO Trimmer Head – AH1300 for a 15″ String Trimmer.
Why We Like It
This replacement head for EGO’s 56-volt battery-powered trimmers is a bump-feed model, already wound with 15 feet of .095 string trimmer line.
This replacement head is designed to fit the EGO ST-1501S, ST-1500S, and Power+ AH1300 string trimmers.
This EGO factory replacement head features an Easy-load trimmer head system. When you run low, you can buy an additional trimmer line spool only- and be ready to replace this one without hassle.
Our Take Away
The AH1300 trimmer head is made with EGO’s inherent quality, and we found it performs well under almost any condition.
The natural feed feature is particularly time-saving. This head also features the convenience of utilizing a pre-loaded bump feed spool.
NOTE:
EGO now manufactures an Upgraded String Trimmer with a “Rapid Re-Load” speed feed head. I love this trimmer, and I can reload 16 feet of trimmer line in about 2 minutes.
You cut a 16-foot piece of trimmer line, then insert it into one side of the trimmer head, push a button, and it automatically loads. Done!
Check out the Ego String Trimmer with Rapid Re-Load for a fantastic string trimmer.
EGO TRIMMER HEAD Replacement (Bump feed)
Black & Decker Trimmer Heads
Why We Like It
This “8-Pack” automatic feed replacement spool makes changing nearly the entire Black & Decker trimmer lineup easy.
These spools come with a whopping 30 ft. of .065 trimmer line that can be installed simply by removing the trimmer cap, removing the old spool, and inserting the new one. No hand winding is required. Swap it – And Go.
Our Take Away
The Black & Decker Eventronic replacement trimmer line head is a significant convenience for electric trimmer owners.
This spool replacement system is one of the standout replacement heads for electric trimmer models and Black & Decker.
BLACK & DECKER TRIMMER HEAD
Greenworks Replacement Trimmer Head (3-Pack)
Why We Like It
Like the previously listed EGO model, the Greenworks (3-Pack) replacement heads are easily changeable spools that come pre-loaded with trimmer lines for user convenience.
These spools are compatible with the Greenworks 2101602 and 2101602A models and come loaded with a 0.065-inch trimmer line.
Our Take Away
The Greenworks replacement spools are a fast and easy way to keep your Greenworks trimmer working without the hassle of winding a new line onto empty spools.
Instead of tediously putting a line onto a spool, you can spend more time accomplishing practical yard tasks.
GREENWORKS TRIMMER HEAD
Craftsman Trimmer Head – Replacement Trimmer “Spools”
Why We Like It
Craftsman’s replacement spools are designed to fit the company’s top-line electric weed trimmers. As such, they are well-made and come loaded with a 30 ft-long, .065-quality trimmer line that stands up to hard use on tall grass and weeds.
Our Take Away
We strongly recommend this three-pack of pre-loaded spools for Craftsman electric trimmers. Having an extra spool or two on hand is always wise, and using pre-wound replacement spools helps ensure that you are up and running again quickly.
See the model compatibility to confirm these replacement spools will fit your string trimmer.
CRAFTSMAN TRIMMER HEAD
WORX Trimmer Head: 6-pack Replacement “Spools”
Why We Like It
This six-pack of WORX replacement spools shows the brand’s attention to convenience and quality. Each spool is loaded with a DNA2 Double-Helix .065 cutting line rated at 100 pounds of tensile strength.
WORX trimmer line strength allows it to be used on thick grass and weeds without undue line breakage.
The WORX specially designed trimmer line is designed to give way when you hit a solid object – making it less likely to snap your line when working around trees, wood fences, or rocks.
Our Take Away
WORX electric trimmer owners should purchase one of the six-pack replacement spool packages. Given the quality and general durability of WORX products, this large number of spools can keep them supplied for quite a while.
We also find that these spools are loaded with some of the best string trimmer lines available for any electric trimmer.
WORX TRIMMER HEAD
“Weed Eater Trimmer Head” – Replacement Spools (6-Pack)
Why We Like It
Last on our list of the best weed eater replacement head options is the replacement spool for the Weed Eater brand itself. This spool, loaded with a generous 30 feet of 0.065 line, features a built-in trimmer cap, an extra retainer, and a spring.
The sturdy ABS construction of the spool body makes it suitable for extended use, even under challenging conditions.
Our Take Away
Weed Eater is the brand that first introduced string trimmers to the broader consumer market. It has always maintained high product quality.
In our opinion, these replacement spools live up to that reputation and will do an excellent job cutting grass and weeds in most contexts.
WEEDEATER TRIMMER HEAD
ECHO Trimmer HEAD – “Universal” Speed Feed 400 – Replacement Head
Note: This model is also our Featured “Editors Pick” but is also a genuine Echo OEM part and will fit specific Echo Trimmer models: PAS-225, GT-2200, SRM-225, SRM-280
The Echo Speed Feed 400 (99944200907)—Bump-To-Advance Replacement head is designed for Echo curved- and straight-shaft trimmers and is compatible with many other weed eaters, including STIHL and Husqvarna.
Editor’s Note: Echo and Shindaiwa are owned by the same parent company, and their products are the same or similarly branded under the Echo and Shindaiwa names.
With the Echo speed-feed design, you feed 20ft. Of .095 trimmer line into the spool, pull equal 10’ lengths to either side, turn the spool cap to “wind” the trimmer line onto the spool – and you’ve done a super quick trimmer line change out!
Bottom line: If you have a large lot and do a ton of weed whacking, this is one of the best weed-eater heads you can buy. That is, assuming it’s compatible with your string trimmer model.
Most users claim this is the best “one-and-done” replacement head available—it is also the one most professional landscapers use.
ECHO “SPEED-FEED” TRIMMER HEAD
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Best Head for a String Trimmer?
These are the 5 Best String Trimmer Heads to Buy:
- 1) Echo(Shindaiwa) SPEED-FEED Head
- 2) WW EZ-Lock Head
- 3). PivotTrim Head
- 4). DeWalt “QuickFeed” Head
- 5). EGO “Rapid Load” Head
What is a “Speed-Feed” Trimmer Head?
A Speed-Feed or Easy-Load trimmer head, such as the Universal Echo Speed-Feed Head, is a revolutionary design that lets you load a new trimmer line in less than 30 seconds.
Cut the 20-foot string trimmer line, insert one end into the Easy-Load head, and pull both 10-foot ends taut. Lastly, turn the ratcheted head clockwise to load the trimmer head. That’s It!
What Trimmer Line Do the Pros Use?
Most professional lawn care companies use a .095 gauge trimmer line, which is stronger than the .080 gauge trimmer line that most weed eaters come with out of the factory.
For pros who do a lot of trimming in rural locations or yards with heavy weeds or tall grass, a “Twisted trimmer line” is often the line of choice, the most robust trimmer line to buy.
Why Does Trimmer Line Run Out So Fast?
The trimmer line will run out much faster if you constantly “Bump” the trimmer head. This is usually done as a habit, without waiting for the trimmer line to be extended with a bump. Get into the habit of only bumping the trimmer head when needed.
Can a String Trimmer Be Used to Cut Tall Weeds?
Yes, a strong-performing string trimmer can trim tall weeds. Weed eaters are the number one choice for pros when it comes to cutting down weeds.
The only thing string trimmers cannot cut are small branches or tree saplings. For this application, we recommend using a brush cutter.
Conclusion:
You’ll find added functionality and convenience with any string trimmer replacement head on this list.
We recommend you always check string trimmer compatibility – before buying a trimmer replacement head.
A few things are worse than working on your lawn and purchasing a new trimmer head only to discover that it doesn’t fit your string trimmer correctly. You’re stuck.
We’ve listed a few more popular brand-specific heads that should only be used on those factories’ specific models to assist with that.
The best replacement weed-eater head will enhance your string trimmer’s capabilities. With an easy-load weed-eater trimmer head, you will make faster trimmer line changes than you thought possible.
While the “Universal” trimmer head models typically indicate the specific brand of equipment they fit, we still suggest you make sure the replacement trimmer head fits your weed eater before buying it.
When in doubt, you should always contact the supplier.
Also, remember that instructions on replacing the string trimmer head will vary, so be sure to read all directions before installing your new replacement head.
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Tired of trying to load wire into a Atlas 40V trimmer head.
I want a replacement weed eater head that can be put on
the Atlas 40V with easy too load weeder wire(plastic wire).
Any size wire.
Edwin Cox
310 Mimosa Rd.
Cheraw, SC 29520 843 622 4240
Hi Edwin
Thanks for your inquiry, and a replacement weed eater head. Unfortunately, we are not familiar with an Atlas brand trimmer. Perhaps you can seek the help of the manufacturer to ask them which Universal Trimmer head will fit your trimmer? Good Luck!
Kevin
The picture on your site for a fixed line trimmer head is what I am looking for but it is not in your review and I cannot seem to find it
Hello Bob
If you’re looking for a Fixed Line trimmer head, you can return to my article: https://www.besthomegear.com/best-weed-eater-replacement-head/
Then scroll down below the description types, to Fixed Line Trimmer Heads, You will see that I recommend the best choices (with links) for WW EZ Lock, and Max Power Fixed line heads. The links will direct you to Amazon for purchasing the best one for your needs
Thanks for visiting Best Home Gear,
Kevin
I am also looking for the trimmer head in the opening picture of this page. You do not address this one. Where might I find it. I’ve used this model before and like it but need a replacement for another trimmer. Thanks
Alan, Thank you for your inquiry as to which Trimmer Head we feature in our Lead photo for this article (above). The trimmer head your seeing is a Universal replacement head called a Speed-Feed Head which is featured in this article, and linked to Amazon as the Shindaiwa Speed Feed Head. The image your seeing shows the “bottom” of the Trimmer Head.
Echo also features this same replacement head in their video (also shown above) and a great tutorial on how easy it is to load new trimmer line onto the head.
Thanks again,
Kevin
Is there an aftermarket bump feed replacement trimmer head for a Black & Decker Grasshog, GH600?
after a quick check online, I believe there is..see this link: https://www.partswarehouse.com/Black-Decker-GH600-14-Inch-Grass-Hog-Type-2-s/157256.htm
Kevin