The Worx WG509 combines a trimmer and edger into one tool designed for quick lawn maintenance sessions. In this worx wg509 review, we will break down every feature, benefit, and potential drawback so you can decide if it is the right tool for your yard.
If you are tired of dragging out heavy, complicated equipment just to tidy up the edges of your lawn, this tool might be the answer. Let’s take a close look at what the WG509 offers, how it performs, and whether it is worth your money.
Worx Wg509 Review
The Worx WG509 is often called the “GT” version of the popular Worx trimmer line. It is a cordless, battery-powered unit that uses a unique pivoting head to switch between trimming and edging modes. This design saves you from buying two separate machines.
It is lightweight and easy to handle, making it a favorite for homeowners with small to medium-sized yards. But does it have enough power to tackle thick grass and weeds? Let’s get into the specifics.
Key Features And Specifications
Before we go further into the performance, lets look at the main specs that define this tool. Understanding these numbers helps you see what you are actually paying for.
- Power Source: 20V Max lithium-ion battery (included with kit)
- Motor: Brushless motor for longer life and more power
- Cutting Width: 12 inches
- Line Diameter: 0.065 inches
- Head Type: Pivoting head with 90-degree rotation for edging
- Weight: Approximately 5.5 pounds (lightweight)
- Feed System: Command Feed bump head
- Adjustable Handle: Telescoping shaft for height adjustment
The brushless motor is a big selling point here. It offers more torque and efficiency compared to older brushed motors. This means you get longer runtime and less heat build-up during use.
Design And Build Quality
The design of the WG509 is where it really shines. The pivoting head is the star of the show. You simply press a button and twist the head to go from horizontal trimming to vertical edging. It takes less than a second to switch.
The shaft is telescoping, which is great for users of different heights. You do not have to hunch over to trim, which saves your back. The handle is adjustable and has a soft grip, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods.
However, the build quality is mostly plastic. This keeps the weight down, but you need to handle it with care. Dropping it on concrete might crack the housing. It is not a commercial-grade tool, but for home use, it feels durable enough.
Performance And Cutting Power
Now, lets talk about how it actually cuts grass. The 12-inch cutting width is decent for a trimmer of this class. It covers a good amount of ground without being too wide to maneuver around flower beds.
The 0.065-inch line is on the thinner side. This is fine for regular grass and light weeds. If you have thick, woody brush or overgrown areas, this line will break or wear down fast. You might need to bump the head often to feed out more line.
The brushless motor provides a consistent power output. It does not bog down easily in normal grass. I found that it handles damp grass well, which is a common problem for many cordless trimmers.
Battery Life And Charging
The WG509 typically comes with a 2.0Ah battery, though some kits include a 4.0Ah. The runtime is about 20-25 minutes with the smaller battery. That is enough for a small yard, but you might need a second battery if you have a larger property.
Charging time is around 5 hours for the 2.0Ah battery. That is a bit slow. If you forget to charge it the night before, you will be waiting a while. I recommend buying a spare battery if you plan to do more than just a quick trim.
Ease Of Use And Ergonomics
This tool is incredibly easy to use. The controls are simple. There is a trigger and a safety lock. You pull the trigger, and it starts instantly. No pulling cords or mixing fuel.
The weight distribution is well balanced. Even when you extend the shaft fully, the weight stays near the handle. This reduces fatigue. The pivoting head also makes edging very intuitive. You just tilt the tool and walk along the sidewalk.
One thing to note is the bump feed. You have to tap the head on the ground to advance the line. It works, but sometimes you have to tap it hard. The Command Feed system is better, but it is not available on this model.
Trimming Functionality
For trimming, the WG509 does a solid job. It cuts grass cleanly along fences, walls, and tree bases. The pivoting head allows you to get into tight corners easily. You can also angle the head to undercut thick growth.
I tested it on a lawn that had been neglected for two weeks. The grass was about 6 inches tall. The trimmer handled it without too much struggle. It did take a few passes, but it did not stall or overheat.
The guard is small, but it does a good job of deflecting debris. You will still get some grass on your legs, so wear long pants. The line breaks fairly often if you hit rocks or concrete edging, so keep spares handy.
Edging Functionality
Switching to edging mode is where this tool stands out. You rotate the head 90 degrees, and the trimmer becomes a vertical edger. This gives you a clean, crisp line along driveways and sidewalks.
The wheel guide is a nice touch. It helps you keep the edger at a consistent height. You just roll it along the pavement, and the line cuts perfectly. It is much easier than using a manual edger or a heavy gas-powered one.
However, the edging depth is limited. If your lawn has grown over the sidewalk significantly, you might need to make multiple passes. The line does not cut deep into the soil, so it is best for maintaining an existing edge rather than creating a new one.
Noise Level And Vibration
This is one of the quietest trimmers I have used. It is much quieter than a gas trimmer. You can use it early in the morning without disturbing your neighbors too much. It is not silent, but it is a low hum rather than a loud roar.
Vibration is minimal. The brushless motor runs smoothly. After 20 minutes of use, my hands did not feel numb or tingly. This is a big plus for older users or those with arthritis.
Maintenance And Durability
Maintenance is very low. There is no oil to change, no spark plug to replace, and no air filter to clean. You just need to replace the trimmer line when it runs out. This is a huge advantage over gas tools.
Durability is a mixed bag. The motor is sealed and should last a long time. The plastic housing is the weak point. If you are careful, it will last for years. If you are rough on your tools, you might crack the head or the shaft joint.
The battery is the other component to watch. Lithium-ion batteries degrade over time. After a few hundred charge cycles, you will notice a drop in runtime. Replacing the battery is easy, but it is not cheap.
What Is In The Box
When you buy the Worx WG509 kit, you get everything you need to start trimming right away. Here is what is included:
- Worx WG509 trimmer/edger
- 1 x 20V 2.0Ah battery
- 1 x battery charger
- 1 x spool of trimmer line (pre-installed)
- 1 x user manual
- 1 x edge guide wheel
It is a complete package. You do not need to buy anything else unless you want a spare battery. The manual is clear and easy to follow, with good diagrams for assembly.
Comparing To Other Trimmers
How does the WG509 stack up against the competition? It sits in the mid-range price point. It is more expensive than basic corded trimmers, but cheaper than high-end gas models.
Compared to the Worx WG505, the WG509 has a brushless motor. This is a significant upgrade. The WG505 uses a brushed motor, which is less efficient and has a shorter lifespan. The extra cost for the WG509 is worth it for the motor alone.
Compared to the popular Ryobi 18V trimmer, the Worx is lighter and easier to pivot. The Ryobi has a more robust build, but it is heavier. For most homeowners, the Worx is more practical.
Pros And Cons
To help you make a decision, here is a quick summary of the strengths and weaknesses of this tool.
Pros:
- Lightweight and easy to handle
- Brushless motor provides good power
- Quick and easy switching between trim and edge modes
- Quiet operation
- Low maintenance
- Telescoping shaft fits different heights
Cons:
- Thin trimmer line breaks easily on tough weeds
- Battery life is limited (20-25 minutes)
- Slow charging time
- Plastic build feels less durable
- Edging depth is shallow
Who Should Buy This
This trimmer is perfect for you if you have a small to medium-sized lawn. It is ideal for quick touch-ups and weekly maintenance. If you have a large property with heavy brush, this is not the right tool. You need something with more power and a thicker line.
It is also great for people who are not comfortable with gas engines. There is no mixing fuel, no pull cords, and no loud noise. It is a very user-friendly tool for beginners.
Seniors and those with physical limitations will appreciate the light weight and low vibration. It is easy to control and does not cause fatigue.
Tips For Getting The Best Results
To get the most out of your Worx WG509, follow these simple tips. They will help you extend the life of the tool and get a cleaner cut.
- Charge the battery fully before first use. This helps condition the battery for maximum lifespan.
- Use the edge guide wheel. It keeps the cut consistent and prevents you from digging into the soil.
- Do not force the trimmer into thick brush. Let the line do the work. Forcing it will break the line.
- Keep the line at the correct length. The bump feed works best when you do not let the line get too short.
- Clean the head after each use. Grass clippings can build up and cause the head to jam.
- Store the battery indoors. Extreme cold or heat will degrade the battery faster.
Common Issues And Troubleshooting
Even with good care, you might run into a few issues. Here are some common problems and how to fix them.
Problem: The line does not feed. This usually happens when the line is tangled inside the spool. Open the head and rewind the line carefully.
Problem: The trimmer stops suddenly. This could be a battery issue. Check the battery charge level. If it is hot, let it cool down before using it again.
Problem: The head will not pivot. Make sure you are pressing the release button fully. Sometimes debris gets stuck in the mechanism. Clean it out with a brush.
Problem: The motor runs but the line does not spin. The gear might be stripped. This is rare, but if it happens, you will need to contact Worx customer support.
Warranty And Support
Worx offers a standard 3-year warranty on this tool. This covers defects in materials and workmanship. It does not cover normal wear and tear, like the trimmer line or the battery (which has a 2-year warranty).
Customer support is generally responsive. You can contact them via phone or email. They also have a website with FAQs and downloadable manuals. The warranty process is straightforward, but you will need your receipt.
Final Verdict
So, is the Worx WG509 worth buying? Yes, for the right user. It is a reliable, lightweight, and versatile tool for basic lawn care. The brushless motor is a great feature that adds value and longevity.
It is not a heavy-duty machine. If you have a large, rugged yard, you will be disappointed. But if you have a neat, average-sized lawn, this will keep it looking sharp with minimal effort.
The convenience of the 2-in-1 design cannot be overstated. You save storage space and money by not buying two tools. It is a smart purchase for the casual homeowner.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How long does the battery last on the Worx WG509?
A: With the included 2.0Ah battery, you get about 20-25 minutes of continuous runtime. If you have a larger yard, consider buying a 4.0Ah battery for double the time.
Q: Can the Worx WG509 handle wet grass?
A: Yes, it handles damp grass better than most trimmers. The brushless motor provides consistent power, but you should avoid cutting very wet grass to prevent clumping.
Q: Is the Worx WG509 easy to assemble?
A: Very easy. It comes mostly assembled. You just need to attach the handle and the edge guide wheel. It takes about 5 minutes.
Q: What type of line does the Worx WG509 use?
A: It uses a 0.065-inch diameter line. You can buy replacement spools or bulk line. Make sure you get the correct size to avoid jamming.
Q: Does the Worx WG509 come with a charger?
A: Yes, the kit includes a charger. It takes about 5 hours to fully charge the 2.0Ah battery from empty.
Overall, this is a solid investment for keeping your lawn edges neat. It is not perfect, but the pros far outweigh the cons for the target audience. If you want a simple, effective trimming solution, the Worx WG509 is a strong contender.
I hope this worx wg509 review has been helpful. It is a tool that does exactly what it promises, with a few minor quirks. For the price, you are getting a good deal. Just rememeber to handle it with care, and it will serve you well for many seasons.
If you are still on the fence, think about how much time you spend on edging. This tool cuts that time in half. That alone is worth the price of admission. Go ahead and give it a try, your lawn will thank you.