The Greenworks Tools 23017 1200W is a wired model from a previous generation in the Greenworks range, which is now largely focused on 24V, 40V, and 48V battery platforms. This positioning makes it a unique device, aimed at those who want continuous power without the constraint of battery life and a low entry price. We reviewed it on its least documented technical points.
1200W Motor and Cutting Speed: What the Technical Sheet Doesn’t Say
The 1200W motor places the 23017 above most consumer electric trimmers, which typically range around 600 to 900W. This power allows it to perform a dual function as both a string trimmer and brush cutter, with an interchangeable cutting system of string/blade.
In brush cutter mode, the blade tackles dense grasses and woody weeds without a notable drop in speed, provided you work in dry conditions. On wet grass, a pasty deposit forms under the casing and mechanically slows down the rotation, which degrades the cutting quality and unnecessarily strains the motor.
The cutting string wears out quickly on this model. We observe a necessary replacement at short intervals as soon as we tackle somewhat tough areas. The semi-automatic feed by ground pressure partially compensates for this wear, but does not eliminate the need to have spare spools on hand. Before investing, consulting a detailed review of the Greenworks Tools 23017 1200W allows you to assess this power/string consumption compromise.
Handle Ergonomics and Rear Motor Balance
The motor is mounted at the rear of the tube, which shifts the center of gravity towards the user. On paper, this is a smart choice for balance in brush cutter mode. In practice, the long handle penalizes the string trimmer mode for average-height users. The ground clearance becomes excessive and forces the device to be tilted, which strains the wrists during long sessions.
There are two handles present: a molded main handle and a repositionable auxiliary handle. The working position is adjustable in several notches, a nice feature that is lacking on many competing models in this price range.
The safety switch must be held down for the entire duration of use. This mechanism, common on wired brush cutters, causes hand fatigue after about twenty minutes of continuous use. There is no speed control or progressive trigger here.
Cutting Width and Versatility of String/Blade on the Greenworks 23017
The cutting width reaches a very generous value for an electric device in this segment. This is the main technical argument of the 23017 against direct competition, notably the Bosch Combitrim ART 26, which has a significantly smaller cutting width.
This width provides a real time-saving on medium to large surfaces but poses a precision problem in narrow areas (flower bed edges, fence posts). In strict edging mode, a device with a more compact head will be more maneuverable.
The 2-in-1 string/blade system works through simple mechanical interchangeability:
- String mode (string trimmer) for lawn finishing, pathway edges, and soft grasses. Standard nylon string, compatible with commercial spools.
- Blade mode (brush cutter) for tall grasses, fine brambles, and overgrown slopes. The metal blade cuts cleaner but requires more caution near hard obstacles.
- Switching from one mode to another without tools, in just a few maneuvers. The locking is mechanical and reliable, with no perceptible play after several cycles.
Limitations of the Wired Format for Brush Cutting
Connecting to mains power limits the range of action. On a medium-sized property, a good gauge extension cord is essential to avoid voltage drops that reduce motor torque. An undersized cable causes motor overheating and negates the advantage of the 1200W.
Greenworks is now pushing its 24V to 48V battery ranges for this type of domestic use. The 23017 remains relevant for users who have a nearby outdoor outlet and who prefer not to manage charging cycles.
Greenworks 23017 Against Battery-Powered Trimmers: What Choice in 2025
The Greenworks range has migrated to cordless as its main development axis. The 40V and 48V models now offer comparable cutting widths and powers, with the advantage of total mobility.
The 23017 retains two advantages against these new models:
- A significantly lower purchase price, with no extra cost for batteries or charger.
- Constant power without degradation at the end of the charge, which matters for dense grasses treated continuously.
- No obsolescence related to battery technology (no cells to replace after a few seasons).
In contrast, the mains cord clearly limits use to nearby gardens. For a larger or fragmented property, 40V battery solutions have taken the lead.
Technical Verdict on the Greenworks Tools 23017 1200W
The Greenworks Tools 23017 1200W is a decent tool, designed for precise use: maintaining edges and clearing medium surfaces near a power supply. Its cutting width and motor power place it above the average of wired electric trimmers.
Its weaknesses are known and structural: long handle in edging mode, tiring safety switch, high string consumption. We recommend it to users who prioritize budget and raw power over freedom of movement. For others, the 40V or 48V battery ranges from Greenworks now represent a more versatile alternative, provided they accept a higher initial investment.