Automatic Vs Bump Feed Trimmer: Which One To Buy?

Landscaping can be a tedious job, but it has been made very easy by the weed trimmers. There are two major types of trimmers available: Automatic Trimmers and Bump Feed Trimmers. But as a customer, it can be tricky to choose between the two. Therefore, we are going to review both; Automatic and Bump Feed Trimmers. In this article, we will present a comparative study of Automatic Vs Bump Feed Trimmer.

Our Verdict

Undoubtedly, both types effectively cut the grass, but there is a difference in their core mechanism. After carefully evaluating the positive and negative features of both the trimmers, we have safely concluded. Each type of trimmer has its merit and demerit. So, it is advisable to have a basic idea about making a wise choice while buying.

The correct thing to do is to assess our needs and buy the product accordingly. If we want a trimmer with great speed and easy maintenance, we should go for an Automatic trimmer. Whereas, if we demand more control, the Bump Feed trimmer is a better option for us. Overall, our final decision should be based on our personalized gardening needs.

Automatic Vs Bump Feed Trimmers: Comparison Chart

Automatic Vs Bump Feed Trimmers: Differences

1. Time

When it comes to a faster alternative of landscaping, Automatic trimmers are the best ones. Their super speed makes them very efficient in time management.

The overall time taken by Bump Feed trimmers is more than the automatic ones. The speed of Bump Feed trimmers is effectively less due to the constant need to bump its head. The continuous impediments prove to be a bit of time taking. Also, we need to change the line repeatedly, which adds up to the amount of time taken practically in the process of gardening.

Bottom Line: Automatic Trimmers are the right choice if we are looking for a faster option.

2. Line Feeding

The automatic trimmer allows us to continue trimming without worrying about the line. In the automatic trimmer, the line feeds itself. Automatic trimmers have sensors to detect the length of the line. When the length of the line gets shorter than the set parameter, it triggers a mechanism to feed more line. The most significant advantage of these trimmers is that we do not have to keep changing or adding the line, which reduces time and effort.

The case is slightly different from the line in a Bump Feed trimmer. The line in a Bump Feed model does not advance on its own. It needs to be bumped on its head to get the line moving. This feature has an advantage. It provides the freedom to use line according to their requirements.

Bottom Line: It seems to be a tie as the choice depends on our necessity.

3. Line Replacement

The automatic trimmers use replaceable pre-wound spools. Although pre-wound spools are comparatively more expensive than a bulk roll of line, it compensates in time management. There is no need to rewind the spool after each use, which saves a lot of time and increases its appeal.

Bump Feed trimmers use a bulk roll of line. Its mechanism allows us to change the spool. In the Bump Feed trimmers, we need to rewind the line every time it runs out. This entire process slows down the process of trimming tremendously. However, the Bump Feed trimmers make up for their lack of speed by being economical, as it is cheaper to buy the bulk roll of line.

Bottom Line: This category also ends with a draw.

4. Maintenance

The automatic trimmers are, simply put, high maintenance. The wear and tear of an automatic feed trimmer are neither easy nor cheap. The most common problems with these are the jamming of line feed, wearing down the motor, etc. It is challenging for an amateur to understand the delicate mechanism of the automatic trimmers. Hence, it is nearly impossible to fix it on our own, and bringing it to a professional may burn a big fat hole in our pockets.

The Bump Feed trimmers, on the other hand, are easier to maintain. Unlike an Automatic trimmer, it has a very simplified system. Some of the usual problems in these are line jamming or damaging of spring or spool due to bumping. However, any of these problems can be detected and solved by even a novice. It is, therefore, a very low maintenance option.

Bottom Line: Based on our data, Bump Feed trimmers are a clear winner in this category.

5. Cost

We compared the price of both products to understand which one is more cost-effective.

After our research, we understood that Automatic trimmers are cheaper to buy and also use a lot less line, which makes these economic prima facie. But we also need to replace the entire spool to replace the line, which is quite expensive. The product is, thus, less cost-effective.

Whereas the Bump Feed trimmers are expensive. But these are more durable and are poor maintenance, which makes these a smart buy. The product is relatively cost-effective and is a good investment.

Bottom Line: We have a clear winner that is the Bump Feed trimmers.

Automatic Vs Bump Feed Trimmers: Similarities

1. Design

Both Automatic and Bump Feed trimmers resemble each other in appearance. The shaft style, mode of operation, corded or cordless design, etc., appear to be the same. It is challenging to tell the two apart just by looking at them.

2. Saves Time

Although, having their own merits and demerits, one thing that both types of trimmers have in common is their ability to save time. No matter which model we choose but the work is done very quickly and correctly.

Automatic Vs Bump Feed Trimmers: Features And Technical Specifications

Automatic Trimmers Features And Technical Specifications:

Many brands offer a wide range of Automatic Trimmers; however, we will discuss some of the bests in the market for your assistance.

Product 1: BLACK+DECKER String Trimmer with Auto Feed

Features:

• AFS Electric String Trimmer/Edger.
• Eliminates bumping for more string
• Warranty for two years
• The product is available on Amazon with a 30 days money-back guarantee.
• Available in six different variants.

Technical Specifications:

• 6.5A, 14 inches electric string trimmer
• Edging Wheels
• Rpm: 8000 Rpm
• Dimension: 8.5 x 4.88 x 37.6 inches
• Weight: 3.19 pounds
• Model Number: BESTA510

Product 2: WORX WG163.9 20V Cordless Grass Trimmer/Edger

• 2 in 1 function – dual-position wheels for grass trimming and edging
• 12-inch cutting diameter
• Innovative Command Feed spool system
• Ultra-lightweight, Ergonomic design
• Cordless, powered by 20 Volt MAX Lithium
• Comes in seven variants

Technical Specifications:

• Dimension: 36 x 7.5 x 5 inches
• Weight: 5.5 pounds
• Model Number: WG163.9
• 20 volts of MAX lithium battery

Bump Feed Trimmers Features And Technical Specifications:

While choosing Bump Feed Trimmers, customers may get confused between the variety of brands and products available in the market. To help you out with it, we are listing some best available brands of Bump Feed Trimmers here.

Product 1: Stens 385-154

• 7 millimeter x 1.00 LHM 8 mm x 1.25 LHM 8 mm x 1.25 LHF 10 mm x 1.25 LHF 10 mm x 1.00 LHF
• Recommended for trimmers under 25cc
• Single spool allows for single or dual-line indexing Uses .080″, .095″ or .105″ diameter line
• Uses 385-888 Trimmer head spool

Technical Specifications:

• Dimensions: 6 x 9 x 3 inches
• Weight: 14.1 ounces
• Model Number: 385-154

Product 2: Shindaiwa 78890-30000 Speed-Feed 400 Universal Bump Feed Trimmer Head

• Speed-Feed 400
• Fits both straight and curved shaft trimmers
• Holds 20′ of .095″ trimmer line. Accepts up to .105″ line thickness.
• 78% thicker bottom for protection

Technical Specifications:

• Dimensions: 8 x 8 x 8 inches
• Weight: 1.3 pounds
• Model Number: 78890-30000

Product 3: Oregon 55-265 Trimmer Head Speed Feed Straight, 4-1/2″

• 4-1/2″ Left-hand Spool
• Adaptors included
• Easy load in 30 seconds or less
• Inner wall reduces debris inside the head, and large, durable eyelets increase line life
• Line tensioning system with split spool reduces vibration

Technical Specifications:

• Dimensions: 6.5 x 6.5 x 10 inches
• Weight: 0.48 ounces
• Model Number: 55-265

Automatic Vs Bump Feed Trimmers: Overview

Overview Of Automatic Trimmers

Automatic Trimmers, as the name suggests, is a fully mechanized weed cutter. It advances the line automatically. The user does not need to stop for pulling out more lines or bumping their head. There are absolutely no interruptions while working with it. The mechanism of Automatic Trimmers relies on centrifugal force to make the automatic line feed.

However, the latest models come with sensors that detect the length of the line and automatically feed more. The automatic line feed makes it possible to focus on the trimming without worrying about introducing more lines to the machine. This helps the task to speed up. Line replacement, however, is expensive because most of the machines use the pre-wound spools, which is costly.

Overview Of Bump Feed Trimmers

The name of Bump Feed Trimmers explains its primary mechanism. The user needs to regularly tap its head to trigger the advancement of more lines. Unlike with the Automatic Trimmer, the line on a Bump Feed model does not advance independently. Another merit of the Bump Feed is that it gives more freedom to get more lines for cutting according to the thickness or size of the grass. It is easier to maintain and repair Bump Feed Trimmer, which makes it highly affordable.

Final Thoughts

Electric Trimmers are the ultimate option for landscape grooming, no matter which one we choose. The choice between the Automatic or Bump Feed model is purely a personal call.

If you’re looking for a fast, hassle-free option, you must go for the Automatic Trimmer. If you want more control over the line, a more durable and cheaper option, the Bump Feed Trimmer is right for you.

Whatever you choose, your landscaping desires are sure to be met. It is thus highly recommended to assess your personal need and convenience before buying.