There’s nothing quite like the satisfaction of a clean edge along your lawn at sunrise. With a Toro string trimmer in your hands, that satisfaction comes fast—one smooth pull, and you’re off. After eight years working as a gardener, I’ve learned which Toros stand up to real yard work and which ones leave you wrestling with line jams and aching arms. Let’s dive in.
Key Takeaways
- Top 5 Toro Models—from heavy-duty gas to nimble cordless.
- Real-World Feedback—starts, torque, line-feed, and comfort.
- Quick Fixes—my go-to tips for clearing jams and avoiding feed headaches.
- Matchmaker Guide—which model fits your yard size, budget, and stamina.
Why Toro Still Rules in 2025
Toro has earned its stripes by delivering dependable outdoor tools, and their string trimmers are no exception. They focus on what matters: easy starts, solid power, intuitive line-feed, and handles that feel good after 30 minutes of work. Whether you’ve got a postage-stamp back patio or a half-acre lawn, Toro has a trimmer tailored for you.
The Lineup at a Glance
| Model | Power Source | Cutting Width | Weight | Run Time/Tank | Signature Feature | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 60V Max Power™ | 60V Cordless | 15″ | 8.5 lbs | ~40–45 min (2.5 Ah) | Command Feed™ on-demand | 4.6 ★ |
| WT-3600 | Gas (2-cycle) | 17″ | 10.9 lbs | ~45 min (22.5 oz) | Accu-Feed™ dual-line | 4.5 ★ |
| 51480 | Corded Electric | 16″ | 9.0 lbs | Unlimited | Manual Feed Dial | 4.3 ★ |
| TB653 | Gas Hi-Flow™ 2-cycle | 18″ | 12.2 lbs | ~60 min (32 oz) | Hi-Flow™ engine | 4.4 ★ |
| 51705 | 40V Cordless | 14″ | 7.8 lbs | ~35–40 min (2.0 Ah) | QuickSlide™ head adjust | 4.2 ★ |
In-Depth Model Reviews
1. Toro 60V Max Power™: Cordless Freedom with Real Bite
I pulled out the Toro 60V Max for a quick garden border trim at dawn—no cords, no fumes. One button press, and that whisper-quiet brushless motor sprang to life. Hitting the Command Feed™ button let out fresh line instantly—no bumping or tapping. Over a half-acre side yard, it ran a solid 40 minutes on high speed, more than enough for my routine upkeep.
- Why It Works: Manoeuvrable at 8.5 lbs, even for seniors.
- Heads-Up: Pack adds a bit of bulk behind the handle.
- Pro Tip: Keep a second battery charging; a hot-swap takes under 60 seconds.
2. Toro WT-3600: Gas-Powered Muscle for Heavy Tasks
Last spring, I used the WT-3600 to tackle a neglected field of knotweed by my driveway. One solid pull, and the 2-cycle engine roared, never sputtering through thick patches. The Accu-Feed™ dual-line head kept fresh line feeding with a simple nudge. Nearly 45 minutes on one tank, and muscle for the thickest weeds.
- Why It Works: Raw torque and generous tank size.
- Heads-Up: At 10.9 lbs, you’ll feel it in your shoulders after extended overhead work.
- Pro Tip: Mix fuel precisely at 40:1 in a marked jug to avoid engine gumming.
3. Toro 51480: Corded Simplicity for Quick Touch-Ups
If you’ve only got ten minutes before guests arrive, plug in the 51480. That 16″ head spins to life instantly. No battery worries, no fuel prep—just unlimited runtime. I clipped the cord to my belt loop with a carabiner so it never dipped underfoot.
- Why It Works: Under 9 lbs and always on.
- Heads-Up: Watch your cord; use a bright-colored one to see it easily.
- Pro Tip: Twist the manual feed dial to adjust line tension on the fly.
4. Toro TB653: Hi-Flow™ Gas Power for Pros
For landscapers and large properties, the TB653 is your workhorse. Its 32 oz tank and Hi-Flow™ engine delivered over an hour of nonstop trimming through damp wheatgrass and thick clover. The 18″ head covers ground fast, and vibration dampeners keep your hands feeling good.
- Why It Works: Commercial-grade strength and endurance.
- Heads-Up: It’s the heaviest model at 12.2 lbs—plan for rest breaks.
- Pro Tip: Warm up the engine for 30 seconds at half throttle before ramping up.
5. Toro 51705: Agile 40V Cordless for Tight Spaces
Last weekend, I used the 51705 on a tight city lot. Its QuickSlide™ head adjust flipped from horizontal trim to vertical edging in two clicks. The 14″ head gracefully navigated flower beds and stairs. On a single 2.0 Ah battery, I trimmed and edged for 35 minutes—enough to finish my client’s yard in one go.
- Why It Works: Superlight at 7.8 lbs and easy head adjustments.
- Heads-Up: Runtime is limited—keep that spare battery warm in winter.
- Pro Tip: Store battery packs indoors at room temp to maintain capacity.
Usage Scenarios
- Small Patios & Flower Beds: Go corded—51480 is plug-and-play simplicity.
- Medium Yard & Routine Trim: 60V Max Power™ strikes the perfect balance of power and mobility.
- Budget-Friendly Gas: WT-3600 gives solid performance without a hefty price tag.
- All-Day Commercial: TB653 delivers nonstop torque for pros.
- Urban Tight Lots: 51705’s nimble 14″ head and light weight are perfect for tight spaces.
Maintenance & Troubleshooting
Gas Models (WT-3600, TB653)
- Fuel Mix: Strict 40:1 gas to premium 2-cycle oil; ethanol-free if possible.
- Air Filter: Foam: rinse in soap, dry, light oil. Paper: replace yearly or when clogged.
- Spark Plug: Inspect every 100 hrs or seasonally; fresh plug = easy starts.
- Line Jams: Kill engine, clear debris by hand, spin head free before restarting.
Cordless Models (60V, 51705)
- Charging: Fully charge before first use; avoid deep discharge.
- Storage: 40–60% charge in cool, dry place; extreme temps shorten life.
- Terminals: Wipe with dry cloth to prevent corrosion.
Corded Model (51480)
- Cord Care: Use heavy-duty outdoor extension; coil loosely after use.
- Head Cleaning: Brush debris from spool housing after each session.
Comfort & Vibration
- Check Dampeners: Inspect anti-vibe mounts every 50 hrs—replace if worn.
- Shaft Stability: Tighten clamp bolts to prevent wobble; a firm shaft means less fatigue.
Conclusion & FAQs
With the right Toro trimmer, yard work goes from chore to craft. My pick for most homeowners is the 60V Max Power™ cordless—smooth, light, and reliable. For heavy brush, the WT-3600 gas model can’t be beat. If you want simple plug-in power, the 51480 is your friend. Pros will love the TB653, and tight-space gardeners will appreciate the 51705’s agility.
Social Proof
“Swapped my old trimmer for the Toro 60V—instant power and zero fuss.” – ★★★★★
“The TB653 cleared my overgrowth in record time—tough, dependable machine.” – ★★★★☆
FAQ (Plain Text)
- Q: How avoid line snarls?
A: Clear debris after each use, feed line gently, and use genuine Toro line. - Q: What fuel ratio?
A: 40:1 gasoline to 2-cycle oil premix; no ethanol if possible. - Q: Battery interchange?
A: 60V packs snap into any Toro 60V Max Power™ tool. - Q: Air filter care?
A: Rinse foam filters every 10 hrs; swap paper filters annually.
Closing Line:
Choose your Best Toro String Trimmer 2025, follow these simple tips, and turn yard work into a smooth, satisfying ritual—easy starts, clean edges, and more time enjoying your lawn. Happy trimming!