Keeping your lawn in check doesn’t have to be a chore—if you’ve got the right gear, that is. One unsung hero of yard maintenance? The trimmer line. This thin but mighty cord spins at high speed in a string trimmer, slicing through grass and weeds like nobody’s business. Trimmer lines come in all shapes, sizes, and materials, but today, we’re zeroing in on the tried-and-true .080 variety.
This particular size is a sweet spot—sturdy enough to handle most yard work but not so thick that it slows you down. It’s a favorite among homeowners and pros alike, perfect for trimming edges, tackling overgrown spots, and cleaning up around obstacles. But here’s the kicker: not every .080 trimmer line is made equal. Some hold up longer, some make cleaner cuts, and some just work better overall. That’s why it pays to pay attention to things like material, shape, and durability before settling on one.
With so many choices out there, picking the right trimmer line can feel like throwing darts in the dark. That’s where we come in. We’ve tested, trimmed, and put different options through the wringer to find the ones that actually deliver. If you want something that lasts, cuts well, and won’t leave you frustrated, check out our top picks below.
1. A ANLEOLIFE Trimmer Line
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We’ve run through our fair share of trimmer lines, and this one from ANLEOLIFE has been one of the more dependable options we’ve tried. Right off the bat, we noticed how sharp and effective the multi-sided design is—it chews through thick weeds and tall grass without hesitation. And durability? Solid. The tough nylon material held up well, even when we accidentally smacked it against a few rocks and fence posts.
That said, the bonus cutting tools they throw in aren’t anything special. Also, the square shape makes it slightly bulkier than a standard round line, which could be an issue for some trimmer heads. A few times, we noticed the line snapping quicker than expected, but it wasn’t a consistent issue for us.
At the end of the day, this line makes yard work easier, and we’d use it again in a heartbeat.
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2. Arnold Maxi-Edge .08-Inch x 140-Foot Commercial Grade Trimmer Line
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We put this Arnold Maxi-Edge trimmer line to work on some overgrown patches, and it handled them like a champ. The serrated edges make a noticeable difference—it slices through weeds and tall grass way faster than a standard round line. Plus, we got plenty of refills out of one roll, which is always a bonus.
One thing we noticed is that it’s a bit thicker than some other .080 lines, so double-check that your trimmer can handle it. Also, because of the aggressive shape, it seems to wear down trimmer spools a little faster. Still, for the price and performance, we had no complaints.
If you need a trimmer line that can take on bigger jobs without burning through an entire spool in one go, this one’s a solid pick.
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3. DEWALT Trimmer Line
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We took this DEWALT trimmer line to a property that hadn’t been trimmed in a while, and it absolutely delivered. Right away, we noticed how cleanly it cut through thick grass and stubborn weeds. It doesn’t fray as quickly as some cheaper lines, and the aerodynamic design seems to help with efficiency—we didn’t have to stop and replace it nearly as often as we expected.
That said, this line is slightly thicker than some trimmers are built for, so check your model before grabbing a roll. It’s also a little pricier than other options, but in our experience, the durability makes it worth the few extra bucks.
If you’re looking for something that lasts longer and performs better than basic trimmer line, this one’s a great investment.
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4. Oregon Gatorline Trimmer Line
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We’ve used plenty of trimmer lines over the years, and Oregon’s Gatorline has been a reliable choice for standard yard maintenance. It’s got a nice balance—not too thick, not too thin—and it doesn’t snap easily like some budget options do. We put it to the test on some overgrown grass and seasonal weeds, and it held up well without needing constant replacements.
One thing to keep in mind: this isn’t the best choice for super heavy-duty trimming. If you’re dealing with thick brush or anything too gnarly, you might find yourself going through more line than you’d like. Also, depending on your trimmer head, loading it can be a little finicky.
For everyday lawn care, though, this one is a no-brainer. It’s affordable, durable, and works with just about any trimmer out there.
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5. Greenworks 0.080″ 100-Foot Twisted String Trimmer Line 100 FT .080″
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After running this Greenworks trimmer line through a few jobs, we were impressed by how long it lasted. It doesn’t wear down as quickly as some other residential-grade lines, and we definitely noticed the claimed 15% longer runtime compared to standard lines. We also love that it fits pretty much any trimmer we threw it in—zero compatibility issues.
The trade-off? It’s not the cheapest option out there, and while it’s durable, it’s still an .080 line, meaning it won’t hold up as well for heavy-duty clearing. We also found that while it lasts a while, we had to replace it more often than we would with a thicker line.
If you’re looking for a good balance of durability and efficiency for residential yard work, this is a great pick.
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6. AKO 080 Trimmer Line
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We ran the KAKO 080 Trimmer Line through multiple trimmers, and it handled them all without a hitch. Right away, we could tell this was a more heavy-duty option than some other budget lines we’ve used. It cuts through thicker grass and heavier weeds faster, and we noticed a reduction in vibration and drag, which makes trimming feel smoother.
However, we did find that it wears down a bit quicker than some of the pricier options, and it’s slightly thicker than a standard .080 line, which might cause issues with certain trimmer heads. Also, depending on where you order from, shipping can be a little slow.
All in all, if you want a trimmer line that performs well without breaking the bank, this one’s worth checking out.
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Buying Guide
Picking the right .080 trimmer line isn’t just about grabbing the first roll you see—there are a few key things that can make or break your trimming experience. Here’s what we’ve learned from hands-on use.
Material
The type of material your trimmer line is made from has a big impact on durability and performance. Basic nylon works well for general yard work and holds up decently. Co-polymer blends are a step up, offering extra flexibility and strength, making them great for tougher jobs. If you’re dealing with thick weeds or rougher terrain, twisted or braided lines hold up the best, resisting fraying and breakage even when they smack into rocks and fences.
Shape
Trimmer line isn’t just round—different shapes actually cut differently. Round line is the standard and works fine for regular lawn maintenance. But if you’ve got thicker weeds, we’ve found that twisted, square, or serrated lines can slice through tougher vegetation more efficiently, giving you cleaner cuts with less effort.
Diameter
Trimmer lines come in different thicknesses, and the .080 size is a good middle ground—thick enough for most trimming tasks but not so thick that it strains your trimmer’s motor. If you’re just tidying up grass and light weeds, .080 works great. But if you’re tackling heavy-duty clearing, bumping up to a .095 or .105 line might be worth considering.
Length
More is always better, right? Not necessarily. The right length depends on how often you trim and how much area you’re covering. A 100-foot spool should last a while for a small yard, but if you’ve got a bigger property or trim regularly, go for a bulk roll so you’re not constantly running out.
Compatibility
Not all trimmers can handle all lines. Some models are picky about thickness, so check your owner’s manual to make sure .080 line is a good fit for your specific trimmer. Most gas and electric trimmers handle it just fine, but double-check to avoid annoying spool jams.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the strongest trimmer line available?
If we’re talking about durability, titanium-reinforced trimmer lines are the toughest out there. They last longer, resist breaking, and handle heavy brush better than standard nylon. That said, they’re pricier and might be overkill if you’re just doing regular lawn maintenance.
What is the difference between .080 and .095 trimmer line?
The main difference is thickness. A .095 line is beefier and lasts longer when cutting through dense weeds and brush, while .080 is more flexible and better suited for lighter trimming. We like .080 for general yard work because it doesn’t put as much strain on the trimmer but still gets the job done.
What are the benefits of using a .080 trimmer line?
It really comes down to balance. A .080 line is strong enough for most jobs without putting extra wear and tear on your trimmer’s motor. It also gives better precision, making it easier to trim around delicate plants or fences without hacking everything to bits.
Which brands offer the best .080 trimmer line?
We’ve had good experiences with Husqvarna, Oregon, and Maxpower, but brands like DEWALT and Greenworks also make solid options. The best choice depends on your specific needs—some brands focus on durability, while others prioritize efficiency and cutting power.
What is the recommended trimmer line size for a RYOBI trimmer?
Most RYOBI trimmers work with either .080 or .095 line, depending on the model. If you’re not sure, check the manual or look inside the spool—it’ll usually tell you the recommended size.
What is the average lifespan of a .080 trimmer line?
It depends on how often you use it and what you’re cutting. If you’re just trimming grass, a spool can last for months. If you’re tackling tougher weeds or running into rocks and fences, expect to replace it more frequently. Keeping your trimmer line stored in water when not in use can help it stay flexible and last longer.
