We test petrol (4-stroke and 2-stroke), cordless (battery), corded (electric) and manual models.

We recommend lawn edgers that score 75% or more overall.

This overall score is based on performance (60%) and ease of use (40%). Performance along hard edges makes up 70% of the performance score, with soft edges making up the remaining 30%.

Performance on hard edges tests rate how well the edger cuts along concrete paths and kerbs, and how neat the edge is afterwards.

Performance on soft edges tests rate how well the edger cuts along soft garden beds, and how neat the edge is afterwards.

Ease of use is based on how easy it is to manoeuvre the edger on concrete foot paths and on grass around garden beds; comfort of the handle; visibility of the edge while cutting; using the controls; the amount of vibration; and adjusting the cutting height.

The year each model was tested. Tests in different years may have been done under different conditions on different sites, and can't be directly compared with each other.

These models can't be found in retailers or online or are no longer manufactured, but you may still find them on second-hand websites or in second-hand dealers.

Recommended or typical retail price. For cordless models this includes the battery and charger that we used.

The diameter of the blade configuration.

For petrol models, the capacity of the engine in cubic centimetres.

The warranty in years. Some models specify different periods for each component. Others offer a "lifetime" warranty, which can be useful but may be limited by terms and conditions.

Our tester measures noise at the user's ear level.

Our tester measures noise at a distance of 7.5m.

An adjustable cutting height is useful; the more positions, the more versatile the edger.

The weight of the edger in kilograms. Measured with fuel tank empty for petrol models, and with batteries installed for cordless models.

The maximum depth, or range of depths, to which the edger can cut, in mm.

Where the product was manufactured (though parts may have been sourced from other places).

Although lawn edgers generally have a marking on the blade cover that helps you follow the line between the lawn and the path or garden bed edge, a special path edging guide "tongue" is handy to better point you in the right direction.

A safety switch that must be pressed or held down in order to operate the main power switch or throttle. This helps ensure you don't accidently start the blades turning, for example while moving the edger to a different location during a job.