WORX WG163 String Trimmer - Everything You Need to Know
BIKMAN TECHWelcome to the BIKMAN TECH blog! If you're searching for in-depth information on the WORX WG163 String Trimmer, you've come to the right place. This post will provide a comprehensive look at this popular 20V Power Share GT 3.0 12-inch string trimmer, helping you understand its capabilities and determine if it’s the right tool for your lawn care needs. We'll cover everything from its key features and performance to real-world user feedback, ensuring you have all the details to make an informed decision.
1. Product Overview
The WORX WG163 String Trimmer is a versatile and lightweight cordless lawn tool designed for homeowners looking for convenience and efficiency. As part of the WORX Power Share family, its 20V battery is interchangeable with a wide range of other WORX tools. This trimmer is specifically designed to easily convert into an edger, offering a 2-in-1 functionality that saves you from buying a separate tool. It’s aimed at users who need to maintain small to medium-sized yards, offering a balance of power, ergonomics, and ease of use.
2. Key Features
The WG163 boasts several notable features that enhance its usability and performance:
- 2-in-1 Design: Quickly converts from a string trimmer to a wheeled edger without the need for tools.
- Command Feed™ Spool System: Allows users to advance the trimmer line instantly with the push of a button, eliminating the need to bump the trimmer head.
- Power Share Battery: Utilizes a 20V MaxLithium battery compatible with other WORX 20V, 40V (2x20V), and 80V (4x20V) tools.
- Adjustable Design: Features a telescoping shaft and an adjustable auxiliary handle to accommodate different user heights and preferences for comfortable operation.
- Pivoting Head: The trimmer head can tilt up to 90 degrees, making it easier to trim on sloped terrain and reach under obstacles like benches or shrubs.
- Lightweight: Designed to be easy to maneuver and reduce user fatigue during extended use.
- Flower Guard: An included spacer guard helps protect flowers, plants, and lawn ornaments from accidental trimming.
3. Design and Build Quality
The WORX WG163 features a predominantly plastic construction, which contributes to its lightweight nature. The shaft is typically made of aluminum, offering a good balance of strength and low weight. Users generally find the build quality adequate for residential use, with the adjustable components and locking mechanisms functioning as intended. The orange and black color scheme is characteristic of WORX tools, making it easily identifiable. While not a heavy-duty professional tool, its design prioritizes user comfort and ease of handling for typical lawn care tasks.
4. Performance
For its intended use in residential settings, the WORX WG163 generally delivers good performance. The 20V motor provides sufficient power to cut through grass and common weeds. The 12-inch (approximately 30 cm) cutting swath allows for efficient trimming. The Command Feed™ system is a frequently praised feature, ensuring a continuous supply of line without interruption. As an edger, the wheeled attachment aids in creating clean lines along driveways and walkways. While it may struggle with very thick or woody overgrowth, it excels at routine maintenance.
5. Technical Specifications
Here's a breakdown of the WORX WG163's key technical specifications:
| Feature | Specification |
|---|---|
| Power Source | 20V MAX Lithium-ion Battery |
| Cutting Diameter | 12 inches (30.48 cm) |
| Line Diameter | 0.065 inches (1.65 mm) |
| Line Feed System | Command Feed™ (Push Button) |
| No-Load Speed | Approximately 7600/min |
| Telescoping Shaft | Yes |
| Pivoting Head | Yes, up to 90 degrees |
| Edger Function | Yes, with integrated wheels |
| Approximate Weight | Around 5.3 lbs (2.4 kg) with battery |
6. What's in the Box?
The contents of the WORX WG163 package can vary slightly depending on the specific model number (e.g., WG163, WG163.8, WG163.9) and retailer, but typically include:
- WORX WG163 20V GT 3.0 String Trimmer/Edger
- One or two 20V MaxLithium Batteries (commonly 2.0Ah)
- A 20V Battery Charger
- Trimmer Spool (e.g., WA0004)
- Support Wheels for edging
- Safety Guard
- Instruction Manual
It's always recommended to check the specific product listing at the time of purchase to confirm the exact contents.
7. Dimensions and Weight
The WORX WG163 is designed to be compact and lightweight.
- Weight: Typically around 5.3 pounds (approximately 2.4 kg) with the battery installed, though this can vary slightly based on the specific battery pack. Some sources list the bare tool weight as low as 2 kg (4.4 lbs).
- Dimensions: The length is adjustable due to the telescoping shaft. For example, one common dimension set is approximately 36.34 inches long by 5.47 inches wide by 7.48 inches high (approximately 92.3 cm x 13.9 cm x 19 cm) when in a compact form. The adjustable shaft allows it to extend further for comfortable operation.
8. Accessories
Several accessories are available for the WORX WG163, either included or as separate purchases:
- Replacement Spools: WORX offers pre-wound spools (e.g., WA0004). They also have a "Spools for Life" program in some regions, where users can get free replacement spools by paying for shipping and handling.
- Batteries and Chargers: Additional or higher capacity 20V Power Share batteries (e.g., 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah) can be purchased for longer runtime. Faster chargers might also be available.
- Edger Wheels: These are typically included and are crucial for the edging function.
9. Ease of Use
Ease of use is a significant selling point for the WORX WG163. Its lightweight design makes it easy for most people to carry and maneuver. Assembly is generally straightforward. The tool-free conversion between trimming and edging is quick and simple. The Command Feed™ button for line advancement is highly convenient, eliminating the need to bump the trimmer or manually adjust the spool. The adjustable handle and telescoping shaft allow users to customize the fit for better ergonomics, reducing strain during operation.
10. Battery Life and Compatibility 🔋
The battery life of the WORX WG163 depends on the amp-hour (Ah) rating of the 20V Power Share battery being used (commonly 2.0Ah included) and the toughness of the grass or weeds being cut. A single 2.0Ah battery generally provides enough runtime for an average small to medium-sized suburban yard. Some kits include two batteries, allowing for continuous work by swapping them out.
The WORX Power Share system is a major advantage, as the 20V batteries are compatible with a wide array of other WORX 20V, 40V (using two 20V batteries), and 80V (using four 20V batteries) garden, lifestyle, and power tools. This allows users to build a collection of tools without needing separate batteries and chargers for each.
11. Real-World Use and Performance
In real-world scenarios, users find the WG163 particularly effective for regular lawn maintenance, including trimming grass in areas mowers can't reach and edging along sidewalks, driveways, and flower beds. The wheeled edging feature is often highlighted as providing a cleaner, more professional look compared to freehand edging. While it's not designed for clearing dense brush or very large properties, it handles typical residential tasks with competence. Its cordless nature offers freedom of movement without the hassle of extension cords or the maintenance of gas engines.
12. Pros and Cons
Pros:
- 👍 Lightweight and easy to maneuver: Reduces fatigue during use.
- 👍 2-in-1 functionality: Easily converts between trimmer and edger.
- 👍 Command Feed™ system: Convenient push-button line advance.
- 👍 Adjustable handle and shaft: Improves ergonomics for different users.
- 👍 WORX Power Share compatibility: Battery can be used with a wide range of other WORX tools.
- 👍 Good for small to medium yards: Sufficient power for typical residential tasks.
- 👍 Relatively quiet operation compared to gas trimmers.
- 👍 Wheeled edging provides good guidance and clean lines.
Cons:
- 👎 Battery life with standard battery may be limited for larger yards: Purchasing an extra or higher-capacity battery might be necessary for some.
- 👎 Not ideal for very thick weeds or heavy-duty clearing: Power may be insufficient for overgrown areas.
- 👎 Line can sometimes break easily or the spool might seem small to some users, requiring frequent replacement or use of the Command Feed.
- 👎 Some users have reported the safety guard can feel a bit flimsy or that debris can still escape.
13. Consumer Feedback Highlights
Overall, consumer feedback for the WORX WG163 is largely positive, especially from users with small to medium-sized lawns. Many appreciate its light weight, ease of conversion between modes, and the convenience of the Command Feed system. The Power Share battery system is also a significant plus for those already invested in or planning to expand their WORX tool collection.
Negative feedback, when present, often centers on the battery runtime (particularly with the standard 2.0Ah battery for larger tasks) and the trimmer line sometimes feeling less durable or the spool capacity being smaller than desired. Some users with very tough weeds have found it slightly underpowered. However, for its intended purpose and target audience, it generally meets or exceeds expectations.
14. Sustainability Aspects
WORX, as a brand, addresses sustainability in a few ways. The primary aspect for the WG163 is its battery-powered nature, which means no direct emissions during use, unlike gasoline-powered trimmers. This contributes to cleaner air and reduced noise pollution in residential areas.
WORX also participates in battery recycling programs. For instance, Positec Inc. (the parent company of WORX) has partnered with the RBRC Corporation (Call2Recycle) to recycle Positec batteries in North America. Users are encouraged to properly dispose of batteries through such programs to protect the environment. While the tool itself is made of plastics and metals, the longevity of the Power Share battery system, usable across many tools, can reduce the overall number of batteries and chargers a consumer might need over time if they stay within the WORX ecosystem.
15. Is the WORX WG163 String Trimmer Right for You?
The WORX WG163 String Trimmer offers a compelling package for homeowners seeking a lightweight, versatile, and easy-to-use tool for maintaining their lawns. Its 2-in-1 trimming and edging capability, coupled with the innovative Command Feed™ and the convenience of the Power Share battery system, makes it a strong contender for small to medium-sized properties. If you value cordless freedom, ergonomic design, and the ability to share batteries across multiple tools, this trimmer is certainly worth considering.
We at BIKMAN TECH believe this detailed look has helped you understand what the WORX WG163 offers. If you're ready to make your lawn care routine easier, click around to find some great deals on this versatile trimmer. Do you have any experience with the WG163 or other WORX tools? Share your thoughts or questions in the comments below!
