COMPARING MILWAUKEE M18 BRUSHLESS STRING TRIMMER TO FUEL QUIK-LOK // MILWAUKEE TRIMMER CHALLENGE!

What string trimmer do you like best? The Milwaukee FUEL Quik-Lok Trimmer or the Milwaukee Brushless Trimmer? The model number of the QUIK-LOK is 2825-21ST and the Brushless dedicated trimmer is model #2828-21.
LINKS TO TOOLS SHOWN IN THIS VIDEO- AVAILABLE FROM THE HOME DEPOT:
MILWAUKEE QUIK-LOK STRING TRIMMER: homedepot.sjv.io/LP07XV
MILWAUKEE BRUSHLESS DEDICATED LINE TRIMMER: homedepot.sjv.io/x9JYkx
MILWAUKEE QUIK-LOK CHAINSAW ATTACHMENT: homedepot.sjv.io/vv2OW
MILWAUKEE QUIK-LOK HEDGE TRIMMER ATTACHMENT: homedepot.sjv.io/BYn1q
MILWAUKEE QUIK-LOK EDGER ATTACHMENT: homedepot.sjv.io/05Y1Y
QUESTION OF THE DAY: What trimmer would you choose, the QUIK-LOK FUEL version or the M18 Brushless? How long does it take each time when using a string trimmer on your lawn and landscaping?
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Hi! My name is Mark Thomas and I'm a licensed residential home builder in Michigan and a fan of home improvement projects, which includes lawn and landscaping.
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[@MarkThomasBuilder]

QUESTION OF THE DAY: What trimmer would you choose, the QUIK-LOK FUEL version or the M18 Brushless? How long does it take each time when using a string trimmer on your lawn and landscaping?

[@franklong6269]

I own the quick-lok Milwaukee trimmer and I have two additional attachments and they work very well. I have had the 9 amp battery overheat once, but that was cutting heavy weeds, four feet tall.

[@aronp713]

@@franklong6269 when you say overheat , what does it do to the battery or the tool ? Any damage ?

[@franklong6269]

@@aronp713 No, there appears to be no damage. I was going to return the battery because I thought it was defective. But it operates normally now without problems. The tool really can't be damaged in normal use. So that should not be a concern. I have since watched one review of the Milwaukee string trimmer by a professional landscaper. He also mentioned that in heavy brush his battery overheated. There appears to be a heat switch in the tool also that triggers. so both the tool and the battery must cool down. Keep in mind that these were huge weeds with stalks between a 1/2" -3/4" thick and they were green. Some of the weeds were over 4' tall. Remarkably, the trimmer cut them and didn't slow down for quite a while. I theorize that the motor got hot and there is a protective heat breaker switch of some kind that shuts down the motor until it cools. It has only overheated once in extreme use and it has never overheated again. I would venture to guess that an Ego or any other brand of electric trimmer would have overheated in the same circumstances, though I have never used an Ego trimmer. For normal use, I have never had it overheat or even get hot.

[@aronp713]

@@franklong6269 thank you for your prompt response! Blessings your way 🙌🏼

[@franklong6269]

@Patrick Faricy I had my Milwaukee trimmer overheat once in a similar situation when I was cutting weeds 3' - 4' tall. There appears to be a fail safe that prevents both the tool and the battery from being used when they are too hot. The tool could not be used for several hours after it overheated. It appears that the 9 Amp Hour battery was the issue I was using was the issue.

[@davidspidle7693]

Thanks for the comparison. The guy at Home Depot had no idea what the differences were and tried to make up some stuff. This helped make the decision to get the M18 Fuel so I'd be able to get other attachments in the future.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Great choice and I'm glad this helped. I have a hanging limb in a tree that will get taken down this week with the Quiklok Polesaw attachment.

[@davidneuzil9356]

I have both. I also have the QuikLok Chainsaw attachment, and the QuikLok articulated hedge Trimmer attachment along with the QuikLok trimmer, I like um all. I use the thicker Milwaukee string and it'll tear through anything.

[@22busy43]

I bought the quick lock kit. Trimmer, edger, pole saw and hedge trimmer with battery and charger. It work great in a homeowner environment. Quieter than my gas tools. Convenient. No gas mixture. Easy to switch attachments. Plug in the battery and go.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I agree, no warmup time either. The motor gets to full speed in under a second.

[@allbbak7636]

I picked up the FUEL Quik-Lok trimmer, love it so much! I bought the edger, hedge trimmer and extension pole which cuts down my yardwork time by half. More time for golf

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Haha, that's awesome. I need to use the hedge trimmer tomorrow to cut some stuff back for the fall season.

[@geoffgarrett5622]

For the last 18 months I've not let the lawn crew edge or use a weed eater in my back yard. kzbin.infoUgkx_rBCFuDW1zD6blTGhLkvAkxU657uR_lG I didn't like the fact that they just kept cutting the edge of the lawn further and further from the rock lining the flower beds and leaving bare ground. And the grass was trimmed or scalped several feet around trees, etc. It was a constant battle with them so I told them to just mow and no trimming. I have Zoysia grass so it grows pretty slow. Obviously after a while it could use some trimming. I'm in my 80's so I can't do much of it myself.Finally I decided that if I could find a lightweight battery powered trimmer I might be able to do some light trimming. I decided to buy the LST201 20V trimmer. And it works great for my needs. I have back yard with about 150' of flower beds and several trees to be trimmed. I can lightly trim the whole yard with a single charge! The grass I trimmed was only a few inches high but the trimmer was more powerful than I expected.

[@ZeGermanHam]

Thanks for the comparison video. I recently got the Fuel w/Quik-Lok because I needed a trimmer and an edger. I have a smaller urban lot, and it suits my needs very well so far.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I use that edger all the time, it's a great thing to have.

[@scrotex6592]

i work for parks in seattle, been using the quick attach for the past week and love it

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's awesome! It's invaluable around the house.

[@johnle6754]

Definitely the delicate trimmer only ! Thanks for the review!

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

You bet!

[@user-uj7bk1sn7o]

Very helpful. Told me what I needed to know.

[@mike81399]

Got the quik-lok trimmer/blower combo today, was only $24 more vs the standard trimmer. In the family now, since getting the fuel hammer drill.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Welcome to the Milwaukee family. I think you'll be happy with your purchase.

[@BigDaddy-vn3ww]

Just bought my Quick LOCK set up 2 days agao and i cannot wait to use it!!! The H. DEPOT has a huge sale on the combo with trimmer and pruner attachment kit i went ahead and bought the extension pole and an extra chain!!!!! I have a boat load of Milwaukee tools and they have always preformed flawlessly!!!!

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Nice! The extension comes in handy with the pole saw. I bought the brush blade attachment, but haven't opened it up to make a video on it.

[@rockydiggerdog3462]

The new easy feed head design. The engineers came up with is sweet potatoes. I’m a huge fan of these Milwaukee, battery powered lawn tools, exceptional, durability, and quality.

[@joet_swbo101]

I did not know that they had a dedicated trimmer version and it's cheaper. Thanks!!!

[@Atum_Ra]

I got a Fuel kit with a pole saw and the whacker attachment with an 8Ah battery and supercharger for like $220 that only only get for the pole saw and because I thought it was an awesome deal with the included accessories, but I've never actually used the weed whacher because my years is desert landscape. Glad to finally see it in action lol

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I use mine alll the time. The hedge trimmer is awesome too, but not sure if you need that in the desert?

[@Atum_Ra]

@@MarkThomasBuilder I have a alot of focus and Lantana that the hedge trimmer would be useful for. I might sell the string trimmer and get the other attachment instead. The pole saw is really nice for timing branches off of really thick palm trees and olive trees no problem. A Gardner in California will easily charge $100+ just to trim a few branches off a tree which is one reason I got it, but to be honest...@ $220 (from on special from Home Depot + like another $50 off for opening an account) just the 8Ah battery and super charger was the real reason I got the kit because I think that alone would be $200+ because these batteries are so dang pricey. I also have the leaf blow which is great but it needs a bigger battery like that and it was draining my 3 & 4Ah batteries too quick. Anyways, I enjoy your vids Mark...you're always picking cool stuff that's actually usefull to people 👍🏻

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks man, glad to hear it! The 8Ah battery is a good one for the outdoor equipment and it sound's like this will pay for itself in no time, lol.

[@JR-ut1yx]

Excellent video my man!!!

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks JR, appreciate it!😎👊

[@RobynHode8]

I bought the trimmer and trimmed 2 foot high weeds at full power. Battery lasted 25 minutes but it really chewed through some thick heavy weeds.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's cool! I have an 8" brush blade to test out on the Quik Lok.

[@shiweicai4872]

Great comparison!

[@nibabak]

Just picked up 2828-20, I like it

[@Dirtyharry70585]

Bought the Quik fuel lock system at HD shipped free to house. $360 Head, trimmer, extension, chain saw, battery+charger including tax. Next I’ll get the hedge trimmer attachment. It’s a beast!

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Nice! Once you get the articulating hedge trimmer, you'll wonder how you ever got along without it.

[@Dirtyharry70585]

@@MarkThomasBuilder yeah the three burning bushes are shaking in fear with their 8 boxwood neighbors ✂️

[@Dirtyharry70585]

Well it’s a follow up with the hedge trimmer….. it a heavyweight, the pivot is well built and it works with the extension too. I cut three burning bushes from 9’ balls to 6’ size with NO problems even using extension with stems 1/4” thick. Better do some arm curls for the strength to hold this beast! Work on one charge.

[@aronp713]

@dirtyharry70585 where you get your combo ?

[@zack6892]

So my experience with the quick lok overall has been pretty good. The downside is the RPMS are a bit lower then it’s Dewalt 60v counterpart. This makes detailed trimming a little tougher also Dewalt offers a guard that gives really good coverage vs Milwaukee which is pretty minimal but really not a huge deal it is actually nice for edging. The place the Milwaukee shines is HEAVY brush it seems to be geared very low which would explain the slow speed. Under heavy load it just eats and eats this week I took on a 4 acre yard cleanup One side was about a 1000ft stretch of brush over 6ft tall. I alternated from quick lok to Dewalt for about 9 hours just to let batteries charge and not overheat and the Milwaukee ran all day without a single hitch. The Dewalt had multiple issues with the head cause it’s junk but other then that it did great as well. Definitely keeping the Milwaukee for heavy use it is just so good at heavy brush the low gearing will run through ANYTHING a homeowner could encounter absolutely couldn’t imagine a scenario it would fail your average person.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Wow, that's some heavy duty use! I have some tall weeds to clear this weekend and glad to know others experience the low torque power with the Milwaukee trimmer without overheating.

[@anthonymacneil2279]

Dewalt is junk, two of them crapped out, only lasting two seasons each. It was head issues, the motor board. Just bought a Milwaukee quick lok and it's shines compared to Dewalt, much more heavy duty. Cheers

[@keithstiltner3539]

Great video Mark

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks man, glad you enjoyed it👊

[@chriscord6524]

I fixed the vibration on the fuel by adding two pieces of thick foam from a/c kit. I used 2sided tape where the battery slams home in the bay. Enough to put pressure on battery, but not too much. I say at least 58% less?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Wow, that sounds like an easy solution that I'm going to try out. Thanks for sharing!

[@michaelholly88]

Looking at both in comparison, the fuel quik lok seems to be the better value overall. I think $50 more to get a XC8.0 and easy to store detachable unit seems beneficial. Having one unit that can edge and trim hedges, prune a tree is the bonus.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

My initial guess was the difference would be more than $50. My big thing after mowing and trimming a lawn is edging the sidewalk, which looks awesome. The Quik-Lok is a great way to do all that. The hedge trimmer is awesome too.

[@michaelholly88]

@@MarkThomasBuilder I can see that, comparing a trimmer to a trimmer standpoint. I agree on the edging too, it’s the finishing touch, and nice to do that all with one unit. I used my quik lok today, ironically…every attachment too. I do notice some vibration, but nothing crazy. I do occasionally get mine to cut out every so many seconds, after heavy trimming or long duration, yard after yard, only seems to happen with the trimmer attachment.

[@jean-christopheroy7809]

For 50$ it is worth it, but here in Canada, the Fuel is actually 200$ more than the standard brushless line trimmer.

[@gr7485]

Nice comparison. I opted for the dedicated version. Should be here any day now. :)

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I like that trimmer, especially with the ECHO .095 Black Diamond Line.

[@gr7485]

@@MarkThomasBuilder Thanks for the tip. Will have to try it out.

[@donnysanner342]

Nice comparison brother. Being a true milwaukee geek makes me a......um...just a geek..😜 I love my red tools , however , both of these could use some improvement IMO , battery usage is pretty good especially when u learn to feather the throttle , both have great throttle response and decent power with the fuel getting the edge. I DONT like a motor where it can get wet and especially one where we all know the vents are going to clog. However the fuel can be easily overheated when giving it a hot supper.....I must say that I've only overheated the power head with the string trimmer attachment in tall heavy grass. The other attachments...no issues. My last gripe is although ergonomics are good they could certainly have done better....

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks, man. You bring up some good points. I used to mow and trim a lawn that had a pond. Once in awhile my Husqvarna gas trimmer would get wet when trimming around the pond. I should've mentioned how not to get the brushless motor wet in my video. The Quik-Lok ergonomics seem better when using the attachments, like the edger. I adjusted the grip to fit me decently.

[@donnysanner342]

@@MarkThomasBuilder I think both of these are far above average especially with the right operator. Where things start to get a little catty wampus is when I use the 3' extension with the fuel , both with the pole saw and hedge trimmers , with the 12.0 battery it starts to get just a wee bit.....well catty wampus. ( Catty wampus ) Adjective meaning things feel just feel a wee bit &@#$ed up. Just a side note , I guess that is why it's called work.....😁

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Haha, I know that term well. My friends mom used that word on occasion. I will have to try the 12Ah with the extension the next time I do some limbing and let you know if I have the same experience.

[@williamwheeler6366]

Excellent point about the motor head

[@Altamahacat]

I had the vibrations like you were showing but I solved it when I replaced the stock head with a Echo SpeedFeed. The stock head is basically trash and it wore out way too quickly. The Echo head on it has absolutely no vibrations on the Quik-lock trimmer.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks for sharing. I'll have to give that a try. I have a spare Echo Speed Feed head.

[@zack6892]

I’ve actually had ok experience with the factory head. From the factory they are spooled like shit though and makes it bind and one side will be shorter then the other causing vibration. Respool and no issues going with a thinner line smooths it out further. I am used to my 60v Dewalt though and that is an actual crap trimmer head lol

[@akui88]

how easy was it to replace the head?

[@Altamahacat]

@@akui88 As easy as any other trimmer. You just need something like a nail to stick down in the hole so you can twist the old head off. The universal SpeedFeed comes with a black plastic washer that you'll need to use as a spacer. If you're familiar with using one on a Stihl trimmer you know what I'm talking about. And then the head comes with a gold threaded insert and this is what you need you don't even need to exchange it out for a different threaded insert. If you know what you do and you can have it changed out in under a minute.

[@kellydole2306]

@@MarkThomasBuilder I had the exact same problem with vibration, switched to my echo bump feed from my old gas trimmer and now the Milwaukee dedicated trimmer is smooth as silk

[@spikeman68]

when running the quik lok,make sure you dont tuck the power head in your arm pit,it will cause over-heating,great piece of equipment ,the branch cutter works awesome,weed-whacker is awesome,when using the milwaulkees "big"tools,use the 12.0hd and you will love them.

[@tonyslawncare]

Great video buddy

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks man, appreciate it!

[@gerardoninl3973]

Nice video thanks!👍

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks for watching!

[@skyy_p]

Good video. Are lengths adjustable? Are the heads rotatable for edging? Do you need to bump to advance line? Can you easily detach the dedicated trimmer or it would have to be unscrewed?

[@Brosko559]

I’m really interested in buying Milwaukee yard tools.. just so many negative reviews of overheating and melting batteries.. I’m on the fence about it

[@matafdo123]

I have gas weedeater craftsman/troybuilt 4 stroke, can those attachments be swapped over to the quick lok?

[@ChesterCoLife]

Thank you. Good video

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks, Mike! Appreciate it.

[@logansimpson305]

Great video

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks man.👊

[@Murdermax14]

I ordered the regular brushless weedeater from amazon and paid $179 for it, well when it came in today...they sent me the fuel quicklock and not the regular brushless one i ordered, should I keep it or sent it back and get the brushless you think? I mainly ordered the brushless to start with because I didn't want the extra cost that came with the fuel quicklock

[@dougfoley6175]

I went with both because I preferred the non Quick-Lock Line Trimmer but needed the other attachments - to the extent that I picked up 2 of the non Quick-Lock Trimmers as they were on sale for $139 and have had no regrets. After 2 years in commercial use the 2nd trimmer is still in the box! How about doing a video on removing the head for cleaning purposes, thanks.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's a good point and a great video idea. I may have to do that soon. Thanks!

[@nillyboble]

I have a 40 volt Ryobi lawn care set. I have the more expensive carbon fiber trimmer unfortunately it started bowling because the metal piece where the push pin is broke and unfortunately it was out of warranty. So I went to Home Depot to make up a mind on maybe get a new trimmer so I was decided on this but the motor on the head where I like to rinse it off do you find that it would get dirty down there quicker than the motor being on the top? Also is it waterproof if you did rinse it off?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

If you want to rinse it off, I'd go with the Quik Lok that has the motor up by the hand throttle. I recall concerns with the other one getting wet -the one that has the motor on top of the line head.

[@joet_swbo101]

In the year that you've had it. Has it melted any of your batteries or has the bump head cracked? Just wondering from some other reviews I have read because I'm thinking of buying the dedicated string trimmer. Thanks.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

No, I'm not too hard on my equipment and haven't experienced those issues. I've had it overheat and I had to stop for a bit to cool down after some long, extended use on some tall weeds. The dedicated string trimmer works best if you occasionally brush the motor off and the mini vent screens.

[@VanillaAttila]

Any tips how to avoid wrist pain when holding the throttle down for extended periods? Usually takes me an hour to do my place and my hand/wrist gets really locked up.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I used to trim around a big pond that took a long time. Once in awhile, I'd switch to using my left hand to hold the throttle, just for a few minutes to give my right hand a break.

[@tadmarshall2739]

Very useful comparison, thanks! For me, I would not consider the dedicated version but I was very interested in knowing what I would be giving up by buying the version with changeable attachments. Seems like I give up $50 and get a bit more whine, so an OK trade off.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

The Quik-lok with the attachments is a great deal. I use mine all the time with the different attachments. That's what I would recommend. Milwaukee is also introducing new attachments on occasion.

[@dsb713]

I just purchased my first home and I need a trimmer and edger.. I typically have used gas from my father in law but I want to buy my own now. Which of the two would you best recommend long term?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Congratulations on your first home purchase! I'd go with the Quik-Lok, so you can have a trimmer and possibly buy some accessories in the future. It's a great tool and you won't have to worry about fuel.

[@kablitz9924]

How long is the run time on the battery?

[@cue03]

Is it a variable trigger or just full on or full off on the quick lok or regular unit?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes, it's a variable trigger.

[@tc5427]

The lights don't light on my battery when in use....is this normal? Do you have to put it on the charger to see "how much" capacity is left?

[@MiloYellowknee]

I’ve owned both. Long story. I found no difference between them BUT I love the Quik Lok!

[@benscott3603]

What about the weight balance difference with the motor being at the back of the quick-lok vs being at the head with the dedicated trimmer

[@MiloYellowknee]

@@benscott3603both feel the same. I can’t tell. The first one was non quik lock. It was stolen. Bought the quik lok a year later. It felt just like the last one. To the point that it was familiar. The quik lok though did feel better in terms of build quality. Just slightly.

[@rw7271]

Is the shaft on the dedicated trimmer fixed or is it adjustable for shorter people?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

It's a fixed length. The handle is the only thing you can adjust.

[@tommyaoi1183]

The frog was giving his Croak of approval. 🤭🤭

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

🤣🤣

[@KyleLeeWoyote]

What runtime do you get out of each?

[@terryraygould9346]

I watched to the end to see if there was a difference in heavy grass but you skipped that comparison? I wanted to know if having the motor on the trimmer end provided any more cutting power than having the motor up on the end and driven via a long shaft. I have the Quik-Lok version with lots of attachments. I was considering getting the dedicated trimmer to make my life easier when clearing out deep growth.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I need compare them in deep weeds and see how long they last and if they overheat.

[@terryraygould9346]

@@MarkThomasBuilder I've used mine with 12 Ah batteries for hours at a time in weeds and brush you can't hardly walk through. The only thing they gave out was me. Lol I will say that as with any trimmer, picking the right string for the job is critically important to its performance. I look forward to your side by side comparison in heavy growth.

[@patfitzgerald9000]

Great video. Is there any difference in weight. I'm buying for an elderly person. Thanks.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks, the Quik Lok is a little bit heavier, by less than a lb. The M18 High Output 6.0 is a nice battery that won't weigh it down as much, compared to the 12ah.

[@user-tm6xy5ku4u]

Здравствуйте какой мощнее 2825 или 2828?

[@derdude8201]

Got the quik lok trimmer and really liked it while unboxing. Bought a brand new 12ah high output battery for it. First time using it it went so hot after just 15 minutes that the plastic on the connection between battery and trimmer just melted…. Both, battery and trimmer useless. I got both replaced. Same happened again, the plastic melted due to heat… Today I am sending back my third replacement, because after just 10 minutes of trimming it stopped working. I think it is the overheat protection kicking in. But even with a new cool battery it just runs for max. 1 minute… I’ll get my money back and buy an ego instead… I really love my Milwaukee tools but this string trimmer just flopped…

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Wow, it sounds like you really gave the Quik Lok a chance. I'm surprised to hear all those issues.

[@derdude8201]

@@MarkThomasBuilder yeah I really liked the handling and overall performance of that machine.. very sad it didn’t work properly. There are so many people all over the world complaining about the Milwaukee trimmers. There must be a fault in production. I can’t understand why Milwaukee still sells this faulty machine. Hopefully my new ego trimmer will be fine…

[@Beardman56]

@@derdude8201 not an excuse but that was solely a 12 amp battery problem. It's too much for the weed eater. Anytime you hear of any of these issues it's always with the 12amp. Run the 8 amp high output and it'll be fine

[@hostilityy]

why is the rear of the regular brushless trimmer so big if the motor is at the other end of the pole?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Good question. It may be a mostly hollow area to support the battery.

[@gmjunky87]

Can you run a brush blade with the dedicated brushless trimmer?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Milwaukee makes a brush blade for their attachment series. I also have an 8" chainsaw style blade that I'm going to test out this week. Stay tuned to see it here on my channel.

[@joshuabush2569]

What's the balance and weight like with having the motor down by the head? I feel like it's more prone to damage and wear on the head Vs the handle

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

It depends on the batter you're using. Today I only had a 6Ah and the balance was a little off. I don't really notice any balance issues with a heavier 8Ah-12Ah.

[@joshuabush2569]

@@MarkThomasBuilder ah yeah, I didn't think of that. Good point! I'm planning on purchasing the articulating hedge trimmer with the power unit so I'll most likely not need the dedicated strimmer unless it's worth the extra money.

[@Peripatetic_Proletariat]

I went with the quik-lok because I personally do not like the motor being down over the cutting head.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Same here.

[@TranTek]

those fine dirt can easily get into those motor holes.

[@Peripatetic_Proletariat]

@@TranTek 👍

[@lyianx]

So, just as a note, according to Milwaukee's site, the 2825 also uses a Brushless motor. "POWERSTATE™ Brushless Motor: Purposely built for the M18 FUEL™ Power Head w/ QUIK-LOK™ to generate the power and performance of high voltage platforms"

[@JB-ro3sz]

the biggest diffference between the two is the fuel is shaft drive and the other has the motor on the attackment.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes good point. The Quik Lok accepts attachments too.

[@eddiekytia]

Forget the money... have you noticed a difference in power or run time. I need a string trimmer and have milwaukee batteries so I'd like to know if there's a difference.... thanks for your help

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I didn't notice any difference in runtime. The one with the motor on the head could potentially run hotter if the vents don't get cleaned occasionally.

[@jesse1up]

The fuel is 300 dollars and the Dedicated is on sale for 179 which is why i went with the dedicated.If it were 50 dollars difference id go with the fuel hands down.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's a big price difference and would say you made a good choice.

[@MutsFire]

Careful with pushing to hard, the connection between my battery and the unit melted shut with a 8ah HO battery when using the trimmer :-O "used it too hard". Milwaukee in Sweden wont fix it for free so not sure if i even should fix it since it seem to be a normal issue 😲

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Wow, that's interesting. I was pushing my trimmer too hard a few times using a 9Ah battery and it shut down before overheating. Sorry to hear what happened to you.

[@patryk135113]

all weight with battery in this model?

[@donaldlee4824]

Is there a way to not manually put the string longer? My Strings always too short and I have to manually to twist and turn to make it longer

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

It has a bump head that feeds the line out while you have it spinning. Have you tried that out yet?

[@flightbun3311]

Thanks for the review comparison. I just purchased the quick lock. My only concern is that there has been many reviews stating that it overheats and shuts off. Anyone experienced these issues?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

You may get it to overheat, but it's not takes awhile. It may be less likely to overheat using a 12Ah battery.

[@markusdammasch9108]

Yea I have one of the quick-lock units and it was overheating from the first day I bought it - it didn't matter what battery I used - it would run beautiful for about 5-10 minutes (depending on the ambient temp) and then keep shutting off - I could persevere with it and just keep restarting it repeatedly for another 5 mins but by then it would be completely unusable until it cools down. I sent it straight back - they said they replaced the motor and switch and I got it back yesterday and it's still exactly the same... will request my money back when I go in after Easter.

[@atvdave88]

I have the wuicklock unit and i dont like using the gaurd and when you let out the line a little longer it will overheat which is crap because i hate using short line

[@terryraygould9346]

I have a 65 acre farm (lots of heavy clearing needs) and bought the Quik-lok two seasons ago. I have the hedge trimmer, pole saw and grass trimmer, along with several extension poles. I have several 12Ah batteries and two rapid chargers. I have never had a problem with stalling, overheating or running out of battery power, and I likely push this unit harder every week than most ever will. The only issue I run into other than when I dropped a heavy limb onto the pole saw and bent one of the extensions (ooops) is not wanting to have to keep changing the motor head around. I watched this video to see if the dedicated trimmer was at least as powerful on the ground working in deep grass as the Quik-Lok version is.

[@carlfoster3961]

Yes i have. Its overheating I think and it cuts out

[@stevenzimmerman4442]

I apologize if you already answered this but If you were just going to use it as a trimmer would you buy the quick lok or the dedicated trimmer?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I"m leaning towards the Quik-Lok.

[@patfitzgerald9000]

Hello. A few months on. Would you still pick the quick lock . I only need a dedicated trimmer.

[@MikeGooley-jl5gy]

Which direction does the head spin? Counter clockwise or clockwise?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

When you're holding it and lookin down at it, the head rotates counter-clockwise, which I'd say is the industry standard. There's a few other brand trimmers that can go both ways.

[@reckeyspinhouse162]

Is it louder with the motor at the back?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I didn't notice much noise level difference.

[@jaydixon1899]

Any problems with the quick lok one over heating?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes, when I was using the 9Ah battery. I haven't had the issue with the 12Ah, but maybe I haven't pushed it as hard yet.

[@peterfettig8666]

Right now the Home Depot has the M18 Fuel Quck-Lok on sale for $299 with an 8ah + 5ah battery. I don't need the Quick-Lok feature at all and I was wondering if there might actually be any disadvantages to having that feature. More to go wrong maybe? Otherwise it seems like a no-brainer to get the model with 2 batteries.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I can't see any disadvantage to owning the Quik-Lok. If anything, it gives you the advantage to add to it in the future.

[@firstknocked8767]

How do you feel with the 5ah batteries? I just bought the quick lock bare tool but I only have 3-5ah batteries.

[@pascalburelle7262]

Witch one is heavier?? Witch one last longer??

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

As long as you take care of them they should last a very long time, especially since they're both brushless motors. I don't notice a weight difference when holding either one, eve though the Quik Lok is about a half pound heavier.

[@leetgif]

Will it take any brand line? Echo line ?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes. I run ECHO Black Diamond line in mine.

[@williamwheeler6366]

Which direction does the trimmer head spin? Clockwise or counterclockwise? I purchased an Ego which I desperately wanted to like, but found adjusting from gas powered, counter clockwise spinning heads, it was a challenge to get used to and ultimately returned it to Lowe’s

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Most trimmer heads (ECHO, Stihl, Husqvarna) spin counter-clockwise, so when you're going around trimming a house, you walk clockwise in order to keep the grass from flying into the flower beds. Do you want one that spins the other direction?

[@reckeyspinhouse162]

Can u switch the speeds on the fly?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

No, the trimmer has to come to a complete stop to switch speeds. It works easy enough to not be a bid deal to me.

[@spikeman68]

i find that milwaulkee tools run/operate the best with a 12.0 batt,best batt equipiment on the market

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yeah, it's a great battery!

[@RobynHode8]

The trimmer battery lasts 35-40 minutes on lower turtle power. This is after charger is green light. The battery is new, should I leave the battery charging overnight since it should last 1 hour.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I don't think extra time on the charger will give you more runtime after it's fully charged. The 1 hour runtime is dependent on the type of grass, height, moisture content, etc.

[@theobserver3021]

I have the Quicklock version. I hate it. You can't slow it down like a gas trimmer for trimming around chainlink fences to prevent line breakage. It supposed to be a variable speed trigger but it does not start out at zero rpms its slowest speed is like 4500 rpms which I need it slower than that. Looking for one that solves this problem.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I was using the M18 brushless trimmer today on low (turtle) speed and I felt like that worked well for cutting grass/weeds and giving me control in some areas where I didn't want to fling rocks. I'm not sure if it would be effective at any speed slower than that. I'll have to try and go slower next time to see what you're talking about.

[@theobserver3021]

@@MarkThomasBuilder i guess my point is its slowest speed is to fast IMHO. Its slowest speed is in turtle mode and you barely move the trigger to get it started. Its start speed is to fast. If its variable you should be able to barely have the string spin to max rpm. These battery operated trimmers don't do that.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

@@theobserver3021 Gotcha👍. I'll have to try that slow speed on both trimmer and see if there's a difference.

[@terryraygould9346]

I have the Quik-Lok and use it on slow mode for most trimming, and then bump it up for heavy stuff. I have no trouble at all feathering it down to a dead crawl speed…my wife has endless flower gardens with rock borders that I trim around. I have to slow it down so the debris isn’t thrown into her gardens, and so the the string last longer against the stone edges. It feathers down much better than the 2 Stihl gas units it replaced.

[@craig19833]

What run time do you get on the 6.0Ah High Output battery.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's a good question. I'll have to get back to you in April, when there's some lawns to trim here in Michigan.

[@pillcosby3949]

Little over half an hour for me.. plenty of time if you’re just using it for you own lawn

[@nicksrandomviews1296]

I've seen people are having problems with the fuel melting battery connections. They don't seem that much different power wise either compared to the price but the attachment idea is cool.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I'm a big fan of the attachment style. I like using the trimmer, and then the edger on the sidewalk.

[@ImpulseAudioSpeakers]

I’ve melted 3 batteries with my quik lok. One melted solid to the tool and had to send it for warranty.

[@nicksrandomviews1296]

@Impulse Audio sorry to hear that I went with the dedicated trimmer and it works great.

[@ex8280]

@@ImpulseAudioSpeakers Did you happen to remove the guard/shield?

[@ImpulseAudioSpeakers]

@@ex8280 nope. I haven’t abused it in any way. It just can’t handle the load.

[@robbiephillips5264]

Pros: Decent power for a battery powered trimmer. Lightweight Good run time if ran on low Cons: the trimmer head is trash. Bump it too many times and it breaks. Try to keep your string adjusted long enough because if you bump the head to release more string, the head eventually cracks. On my 4th replacement head

[@JFlagle]

The dedicated string trimmer is better balanced. The battery and the head counteract each other.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Thanks for sharing, I'll have to compare the balance some more next time.

[@morejelloplease]

also the quik-lok version is also brushless.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's correct and the other one is brushless as well.

[@brawlman]

The dedicated is a brushless vs the fuel quick-loc isn't. Has anybody had any experience with longevity to comment on?

[@triaxe-mmb]

isnt the quik lok also a brushless motor? i thought that's what it said on milwaukee's website....

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Yes, I believe both of them are brushless.

[@triaxe-mmb]

@@MarkThomasBuilder thanks! You should really do a video on what the different m18 batter packs mean and how to chose the right one... Milwaukee does a great job confusing the heck out me with all the marketing jargon... 😆

[@rdpfc2155]

Currently at HD, the price difference between the dedicated trimmer w/6.0 and the Quik-Lok with 8.0 is $120 ($179 vs $299). That's a lot more than $50.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Oh wow, the bigger price difference will make the dedicated trimmer more appealing, I'd say.

[@newfoundlandfarmhouse7698]

@@MarkThomasBuilder Where I live the Quik-Lok version is in stock but $150 more at HD - I'll wait the couple of weeks to get the other model (also from HD). Thanks for a fantastic video.

[@ronmatthews2250]

My M18 Milwaukee trimmer turns off and on once it heats up after around 18 minutes , is that just mine or is that how they are as a design defect ?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I've had the Quik-Lok shut down a couple time after extended use. I'm not sure if the 9Ah overheats faster than the 12 AH high output, but I think it does.

[@markusdammasch9108]

My quick-lock unit overheats after only 5-10 mins of decent use (maybe in warmer climate) - I've tried with each of my batteries (6, 8, 9, 12 ah) and all the same result... I can't recommend it - it's been back for warranty and is still exactly the same...

[@morejelloplease]

i've used the first gen milwaukee a few times and it's heavy, awkward and my damn arm hurts for a day after use. not to mention i can't get the right angle for even grass and edging just kills my legs with rocks when wearing shorts. sounds like the new one is faster, maybe it will feel worse with all the weight at the head. reloading the head is a pain in the arse. so far, my old toro gas curved head trimmer was overall better.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

It's always a little tricky for me every time I try a new trimmer. I get used to the way one fits and the new one doesn't seem to work as well, that is until I get used to it.

[@williamwheeler6366]

Which direction does the trimmer head spin? I have found that the gas powered heads spin counter clockwise - which I am used to - compared to an Ego I tried which spins clockwise and could not get used to

[@gr7485]

@@williamwheeler6366 The dedicated spins counter.

[@Therealphantomzero]

i have the now discontinued m18 fuel trimmer and it seems that ran slower, so anyone can really confirm the performance difference between these two?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I didn't really notice a power difference between the 2. The thing I always noticed was the one having the motor on top of the trim area.

[@Therealphantomzero]

@@MarkThomasBuilder that's the brushless one, and the fuel quick lock. There is another model that preceded the quick lock. Fuel.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Oh okay, thanks for clarifying. I'm not familiar with that model trimmer.

[@kimsac1]

❤️👍👍👍

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

😁🙌

[@oneemptymag]

Any issues with the fuel trimmer overheating?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I did have it overheat on a big project using the 9Ah battery. The 12Ah high output battery hasn't had any overheating yet.

[@derdude8201]

I’ve had huge problems with overheating.. my first quik lok. string trimmer got so hot the plastic on the battery melted. Got a replacement. New trimmer, new battery. Same happened again. Today with my third replacement the problems are different. Now the trimmer overheats after 10-15 minutes light work. Changing the battery doesn’t help. With the new cool battery it runs for 1 more minute till it stops working.. Then it won’t start anymore unless you leave it cooling down for 40 minutes…

[@midwestgroundup8403]

@@derdude8201 We are having the identical issue with all 4 of our Q/L heads. Only a month old. They overheat and they will not run until cooled down. We have had 2 and even 3 units overheated at the same time on a project. We run 3-5-6-8-9-12 ah batteries, at some point the heads still overheat. We will be returning 2 of the units/kits this week for a full refund. Keeping 2 units/kits to run the other Q/L attachments. Good luck.

[@derdude8201]

@@midwestgroundup8403 this is crazy! This must be some kind of production fault with the newer units because I never heard of this kind of problems from people owning it for more than a year or so…

[@Scottchmorsco]

QUIK-LOK

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Good choice

[@JustinAarond]

Quick lock kit comes with a xc8.0 battery

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I do like the the 12Ah battery, but the 8 Ah does a great job too.

[@Saxondog]

Definitely multi tool. I don't like the idea of the motor being on the cutting head, taking a bump each time you feed more cord and taking knocks from tree stems etc. DeWalt have made the same mistake. Me? I'll go with the Stihl Kma135r.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's a good point.

[@kimsac1]

Which of the two is the lightest?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

The Qwik-Lok is heavier by .75 lb.

[@kimsac1]

@@MarkThomasBuilder Thank you my friend.👍

[@Emilywhite13344]

I put my Milwaukee electric trimmer thru dirt with one string got Shxt done

[@LCculater]

Home Depot 😂 love the store but personal sometimes has no idea 😂

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

My local store has some long time employees, so it appears like a good place to work. A few that I talk with know their stuff, like the electrical aisle. The tool aisle seems to have some the less experienced people. Sometimes I've even helped people in the store. I guess I look like a tool guy, lol.

[@triaxe-mmb]

so which one did you prefer in the end?

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

I like running different attachments, so I would go with the Quik-Lok.

[@triaxe-mmb]

@@MarkThomasBuilder that's what I was thinking too... Is there a big difference in comfort with all they mass at the back rather than split on both ends?

[@konamanstudio2447]

Which one do you prefer 👍🏻🍻🍺🤙🏼

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

Good question... I'm leaning toward the FUEL version, since I the edger every week. 🍻👊💯

[@m.n.2523]

The FUEL Version is what I prefer. The motor on the string head on the brushless version is not a good idea.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

👍💯

[@ghostt703]

I almost melted a battery 🪫 I used 5 high output batteries to cut the front yard. It was like 90 degrees and I had 4 ft of grass and wild flowers

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

They make a brush cutter attachment that I have in a box and plan to try out. That might work better in the Quik Lok trimmer. Stay tuned for that video soon.

[@devinbreeding5412]

Motors on heads of string trimmers is asking for problems. Initially might work great but when that grass gets caked on everywhere on the head, strong likelihood it will be less efficient or overheat.

[@MarkThomasBuilder]

That's a good point. I try to brush it off on a regular basis.