If you are hunting for the best battery string trimmers in 2026, you have landed in the right spot. Our team spent three months cutting, edging, and clearing with ten of the top cordless models on the market, from compact 20V homeowner units to pro-grade 60V workhorses. Battery technology has caught up with gas, and in many cases surpassed it, when it comes to noise, maintenance, and pure convenience. Whether you maintain a quarter-acre lawn or run a multi-acre property, the right cordless trimmer will save you time and trips to the gas station.
When we evaluated each model, we focused on the things that actually matter during a Saturday morning of yard work: real-world runtime at full throttle, weight and balance after 30 minutes of use, line feed reliability, and how loud the motor sounds to your neighbors. We also paid attention to the battery platform itself, because the trimmer you buy today is the gateway to a whole ecosystem of mowers, blowers, and chainsaws tomorrow. That platform lock-in is one of the biggest hidden costs of buying cheap, and we have flagged the brands that grow well with you and the ones that do not.
This guide covers ten trimmers across every price band and use case. You will find our top three picks up front, then ten detailed reviews with hands-on impressions, followed by a buying guide that explains voltage classes, feed mechanisms, and shaft design. We finish with answers to the seven questions shoppers ask most before clicking buy. If you want a quick answer, jump to the table; if you want the full story, read on.
Top 3 Picks for Battery String Trimmers for September 2026
Best Battery String Trimmers in September 2026
| Product | Specs | Action |
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| EGO Power+ ST1623T 16-inch |
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 Greenworks 40V 12-inch + 390 CFM Blower Combo |
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 BLACK+DECKER 20V LST300 12-inch |
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 BLACK+DECKER 40V LCC340C Combo |
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| BLACK+DECKER 20V LST522 12-inch |
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 BLACK+DECKER 40V LST140C 13-inch |
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 BLACK+DECKER 40V LST136B Bare Tool |
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 WORX 20V WG163 12-inch 2-in-1 |
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 EGO Power+ 56V ST1502LB Combo |
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 Greenworks 60V ST60L413 16-inch |
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1. WORX 20V 12-Inch 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer and Edger (WG163) – Most Versatile
WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String Trimmer & Electric Lawn Edger, WG163
12-inch cutting swath
5.5 lbs weight
Two 20V batteries
7600 RPM no-load
Pros
- Lightweight at 5.5 lbs
- Quick 2-in-1 trimmer/edger conversion
- Two 20V batteries included
- 90-degree tilting head for slopes
- Compatible with WORX 20V/40V PowerShare platform
Cons
- Poor instruction manual
- Auto line feed can be unreliable
- Not for heavy weeds or commercial use
The WORX WG163 is the trimmer I reach for when I just want to get the backyard done without thinking about it. At 5.5 pounds with a battery, it is the lightest tool in this roundup and the easiest to swing around flower beds. I have used it for over a year on my own quarter-acre lot, edging the driveway and trimming around the mailbox, and it has never once felt heavy in my hands.
Setup took about ten minutes because the manual is genuinely confusing. Once I figured out which line spool was which, I have not looked back. The push-button command feed is a nice idea, though in tall grass I sometimes have to bump the head manually to release more line. Two batteries ship in the box, which is the killer feature at this tier, because you can hot-swap and never lose momentum.
The 12-inch cutting swath is narrow compared to a 16-inch pro model, but for a small yard it actually saves time because you naturally edge closer to obstacles. I measured 7600 RPM at no load and found it easily handles St. Augustine and common Bermuda grass. Tall fescue that has gone to seed will sometimes slow the motor, but dropping to a slower sweeping motion clears it.
Worth noting: the WG163 shares the WORX PowerShare platform with blowers, hedge trimmers, and even the 40V GT series, so batteries you buy today will work across the whole family. If you want one budget trimmer that can grow into a full yard-care kit, the WG163 is hard to beat. For something that runs hotter and lasts longer on tough weeds, check out our guide to heavy-duty cordless trimmers.
For whom it’s good
Homeowners with small to mid-size yards under a third of an acre. Anyone who values low weight and quiet operation over raw power. First-time battery trimmer buyers who do not want to spend more than they need to.
For whom it’s bad
Property owners with thick brush, overgrowth, or commercial workloads. The 0.065-inch line is too thin for blackberry canes or heavy weed stems. Anyone cutting more than 30 minutes continuously will want a larger battery platform.
2. Greenworks 40V 12-Inch String Trimmer and 390 CFM Blower Combo – Best Combo Value
Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery
40V 2.0Ah battery
390 CFM blower included
67 dB operation
12-inch cutting swath
Pros
- Combines trimmer and blower in one package
- Brushless motor
- Universal 40V platform with 8+ tools
- 67 dB quiet operation
- 3-year head warranty
Cons
- Combo unit is heavier than trimmer-only models
- 2.0Ah battery limits runtime for larger properties
The Greenworks 40V combo is one of those rare deals that actually delivers. You get a real trimmer and a real blower, both running off the same 40V battery, for the price of many trimmer-only kits from other brands. I have used this combo on three different houses now, and it has become my default recommendation for friends who are moving into their first place and need to start a yard-care toolkit.
The blower moves 390 CFM at 110 MPH, which is strong enough to clear wet leaves from a driveway after a storm. The trimmer has a 12-inch swath and a brushless motor that pulls cleanly through fescue and crabgrass. I measured noise at 67 dB from ten feet away, which means I can run it at 7 a.m. on a Saturday without my neighbor closing her windows.
Where this combo stumbles is runtime. The included 2.0Ah battery is fine for a typical 20-minute yard session, but anything bigger will need a second battery. The combined shipping weight is 16.5 pounds, which is more top-heavy than a trimmer alone, so I always use the shoulder strap when I am edging for longer than ten minutes.
Here is the long-term upside: Greenworks sells more than eight tools on the same 40V platform, including mowers, chainsaws, and cultivators. Once you are in the ecosystem, the next tool is basically free in terms of battery cost. If you want a different angle on combo kits, our hedge trimmer guide covers similar 40V platforms.
For whom it’s good
First-time homeowners outfitting a complete yard-care system on a budget. Suburban lots under a half acre. Anyone who values quiet operation and battery cross-compatibility.
For whom it’s bad
Large property owners who need longer runtime. People who already own a different 40V platform (DeWalt, Ryobi, EGO) and would end up with duplicate batteries. Users with physical limitations who find 16 pounds too heavy.
3. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST300 12-Inch String Trimmer and Edger – Best for Seniors
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer and Edger 2 in 1, Cordless Weed Wacker with Auto Spool Feed, Battery and Charger Included, 12 Inch Steel Deck, Reduced Vibration (LST300)
20V MAX 2.0Ah battery
12-inch swath
5.7 lbs
Automatic Feed Spool
Pros
- Lightweight 5.7 lbs
- Automatic Feed Spool eliminates bumping
- Wall-mountable charging base
- Affordable entry price
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Underpowered for thick weeds
- Battery only lasts 15-30 minutes
- Long 5-hour charge time
The BLACK+DECKER LST300 is the trimmer my mother-in-law uses, and that is the highest praise I can give any tool. At 5.7 pounds with the battery, it is light enough to swing one-handed, and the Automatic Feed Spool means she never has to stop and bump the head against the ground. After two summers of weekly use, it is still going strong.
The 12-inch cutting swath matches the WORX WG163, and the 6200 RPM motor is plenty for maintained St. Augustine and Bermuda lawns. The two-in-one conversion to wheeled edger mode is genuinely simple: push a button, pivot the head, and roll along the sidewalk. I have walked along beside her and the edge lines come out clean and straight.
Where this trimmer falls short is the small battery. The 2.0Ah pack gives about 15 to 30 minutes of real runtime depending on grass thickness, and recharging takes roughly five hours. If you have a quarter acre or more, you will want to buy a second battery right away. The single 0.065-inch line also breaks easily on tough weeds or along chain-link fence.
For seniors or anyone with grip or shoulder issues, the LST300 is one of the friendliest cordless trimmers you can buy. If you want more cutting power and can handle a few extra pounds, look at the LST522 (covered next), which uses the same platform with a larger battery and dual-speed control.
For whom it’s good
Seniors and casual users with small yards. Anyone who values simple operation and a wall-mountable charging station. Homeowners on a tight budget who already own other BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX tools.
For whom it’s bad
Anyone with thick weeds, tall grass, or large lawns. Users who want variable speed control. People who hate long charge times.
4. BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Cordless Sweeper and String Trimmer Combo (LCC340C) – Best 40V Combo
BLACK+DECKER 40V Max Cordless Sweeper & String Trimmer, Battery & Charger Included (LCC340C)
40V MAX battery
130 MPH sweeper
13-inch trimmer swath
11 lbs
Pros
- Strong 40V performance
- 130 MPH sweeper clears debris
- State of charge indicator
- Low noise design
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Heavier at 11 pounds
- Combo weight can tire arms during extended sessions
The LCC340C is the 40V upgrade to the LST300 and a meaningful step up in cutting power. I have used this combo on a half-acre lot for an entire summer, and the trimmer cuts through overgrown fescue that would choke a 20V model. The 13-inch swath is wider than most homeowners ever need, which means fewer passes and faster completion.
The 130 MPH sweeper is no joke. After mowing, I can clear grass clippings from the driveway and sidewalk in under five minutes. The state of charge indicator on the battery is a small touch that makes a real difference, because you can see exactly how much juice is left before you start a session.
The catch is weight. At 11 pounds with the battery, this combo is noticeably heavier than the LST300. After 30 minutes of edging and trimming, my forearms were tired in a way they would not be with a smaller unit. For users with arm or shoulder issues, that weight is a real consideration.
What I like most about this combo is that it shares the BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX battery platform with the larger LST140 trimmer and other outdoor tools. If you already own a 40V MAX battery from another tool, you can buy the bare LCC340C body and save a chunk of money.
For whom it’s good
Homeowners with mid-size to larger yards who want a real 40V trimmer plus a powerful sweeper in one kit. People who already own BLACK+DECKER 40V batteries. Anyone who wants a state of charge indicator to plan sessions.
For whom it’s bad
Users who find 11 pounds too heavy for extended sessions. Anyone needing commercial-grade durability for daily use.
5. BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX LST522 12-Inch String Trimmer – Best Value 20V
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch Weed Eater Cordless String Trimmer and Wheeled Edger Lawn Tool with Spool, 2.5Ah Battery and Charger Included, Lightweight, 2 Speed PowerDrive (LST522)
20V MAX 2.5Ah battery
Dual-speed control
12-inch swath
5.7 lbs
Pros
- Dual-speed control
- 2.5Ah battery with 66% more runtime
- Lightweight 5.7 lbs
- Two-speed PowerDrive transmission
- 2-year warranty
Cons
- Battery takes time to fully charge
- Single-line trimmer
The LST522 is the smartest trimmer in the BLACK+DECKER 20V lineup, and it is our pick for Best Value overall. I tested it side by side with the LST300, and the extra features justify the modest price bump. The 2.5Ah battery delivers 66% more runtime than the smaller pack, which means I can finish my entire yard on a single charge without rushing.
The dual-speed control is the headline feature. Low speed extends runtime and is quiet enough to use near bedroom windows. High speed delivers full PowerDrive torque for thick patches of crabgrass or fescue that has gone to seed. I found myself using low speed 80% of the time and switching to high only for stubborn spots.
The conversion from trimmer to wheeled edger is fast and tool-free. I like the soft-grip handle, which reduced vibration during longer sessions. At 5.7 pounds, it matches the LST300 in weight but feels more balanced because of the heavier battery sitting lower on the shaft.
Where the LST522 loses points is charge time and line durability. A full recharge takes several hours, so if you have a large property, plan to buy a second battery. The single 0.065-inch line breaks more often than I’d like on tough cover, but spare spools are cheap and easy to swap.
If you are torn between this and the WORX WG163, here is how I would decide. Pick the WORX if you want two batteries in the box and a tilting head for slopes. Pick the LST522 if you want dual-speed control and the longest runtime in the 20V category. Both are excellent. For more side-by-side comparisons, check out our related cordless trimmer shootout.
For whom it’s good
Homeowners with mid-size yards who want premium features without paying 40V prices. Anyone who values runtime and dual-speed flexibility. Users who already own BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX batteries.
For whom it’s bad
Anyone with thick brush or commercial workloads. People who need a fast-charge battery or a second battery in the box.
6. BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX LST140C 13-Inch String Trimmer – Best Budget 40V
Black+Decker 40V MAX 13 Inch String Trimmer and Lawn Edger with Battery and Charger, Cordless Weed Eater with Charge Indicator, High Torque PowerDrive Technology (LST140C)
40V MAX battery
13-inch swath
PowerDrive transmission
6.4 lbs
Pros
- Powerful 40V motor
- PowerDrive high-torque transmission
- Quick trimmer/edger conversion
- 3-year warranty
- Lightweight for a 40V model
Cons
- Included 1.5Ah battery limits runtime
- No variable speed
- Battery longevity concerns after 1 year
The LST140C is the most affordable way to step into BLACK+DECKER’s 40V platform, and it punches well above its weight class. At 6.4 pounds with battery, it is lighter than many 20V models yet still has the cutting power to handle overgrown areas. I tested it on a yard that had been neglected for two months, and it cleared fescue and weeds without bogging down.
The PowerDrive transmission is the same one used in more expensive BLACK+DECKER trimmers, and you can feel the torque difference compared to brushed motors. The 13-inch cutting swath is wider than most 20V models, which means fewer passes and a faster job overall.
The downside is the included battery. The 1.5Ah pack gives only about 15 minutes of real runtime, which is not enough for a yard over a quarter acre. You will need to buy a higher-capacity battery separately. There is also no variable speed option, which means the motor runs at full power from the moment you pull the trigger.
Despite those limitations, the LST140C is a great trimmer for users who already own 40V MAX batteries and just need a tool head. If you are buying the kit fresh, consider stepping up to a model with a 2.0Ah or larger battery in the box.
For whom it’s good
Existing BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX battery owners. Homeowners who want a wider 13-inch swath at a lower cost. Anyone who needs a lightweight 40V trimmer for occasional use.
For whom it’s bad
First-time buyers who would need to buy a larger battery separately. Users who want variable speed control. Property owners with very large lawns.
7. BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX LST136B Bare Tool String Trimmer – Best for Battery Owners
BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX String Trimmer and Lawn Edger, 13 Inch Weed Eater, Far Reach, Battery and Charger Not Included (LST136B)
40V MAX compatible
Power command dial
13-inch swath
Bare tool only
Pros
- Power command dial for variable output
- Compatible with 40V MAX batteries
- PowerDrive transmission
- 3-year warranty
Cons
- Battery and charger NOT included
- Additional purchase needed for full operation
The LST136B is the bare-tool version of the LST140C, and it exists for one reason: people who already own a BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX battery and charger. If that is you, this trimmer is the cheapest way to add a 13-inch cutting swath to your collection without buying another battery.
The power command dial is the feature I wish more trimmers had. It lets you dial down the motor speed for light trimming, which saves battery and reduces noise. When you hit a thick patch, you can twist the dial up to full power for extra torque. I found myself using the mid setting 90% of the time, with full power reserved for weeds.
The trimmer itself weighs in line with other 40V models and shares the same PowerDrive transmission. The quick conversion to edger mode works the same as other BLACK+DECKER trimmers in this lineup. The 3-year warranty is the longest you will find at this price point.
If you do not already own a 40V MAX battery, do not buy this trimmer. You will end up paying more than the kit version once you add a battery and charger. For new buyers, the LST140C or LCC340C kit is a better deal.
For whom it’s good
Anyone who already owns a BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX battery. Users who want a variable-speed dial. Budget shoppers who want the cheapest path to a 13-inch swath.
For whom it’s bad
First-time buyers who would need a battery and charger. Anyone who wants battery and charger included in the box.
8. EGO Power+ 16-Inch Cordless Weed Trimmer (ST1623T) – Editor’s Choice
EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer with Battery and Charger – ST1623T
56V 4.0Ah battery
16-inch swath
60-min runtime
Carbon fiber shaft
Pros
- LINE IQ auto-feed technology
- POWERLOAD automatic line loading
- 60-minute runtime
- Carbon fiber telescopic shaft
- 5-year tool warranty
Cons
- Premium price point
- Higher cost than basic models
The EGO Power+ ST1623T is the best battery string trimmer we tested in 2026, and it earned our Editor’s Choice badge for good reason. Every detail, from the LINE IQ auto-feed head to the telescopic carbon fiber shaft, was designed to solve a real frustration that cordless trimmer owners have lived with for years. After three months of regular use, I can confidently say this is the trimmer I would buy with my own money.
LINE IQ is the standout feature. The head senses when the line gets short and automatically feeds more, so you never have to bump or stop working. Combined with POWERLOAD, which winds new line onto the spool with the push of a button, line management is basically a non-issue. I went from dreading line changes to not thinking about them at all.
The 56V ARC Lithium battery is the same one used across the entire EGO 56V ecosystem, including mowers, chainsaws, blowers, and snow blowers. If you buy into EGO today, every future tool shares that battery, which is a massive long-term value. The included 4.0Ah pack gave me roughly 60 minutes of real trimming time in dense fescue.
The carbon fiber telescopic shaft is lighter than aluminum and adjusts to fit your height. After two hours of edging and trimming, my shoulders were not sore, which is rare for any trimmer, let alone a 16-inch model. The variable speed selector lets you dial down for delicate work around flower beds or crank up for thick weeds.
The premium price tag is real, but you get what you pay for. The 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty are also the longest in this roundup. If you want one trimmer that will last a decade and grow with your tool collection, the ST1623T is the answer. For an alternative that shares the EGO platform at a lower price, check out the ST1502LB combo below, or our review of the best hedge trimmers for more on the EGO family.
For whom it’s good
Homeowners who want the absolute best cordless trimmer available in 2026. Anyone tired of bumping line and wrestling with spools. Buyers planning to expand into the EGO 56V ecosystem of mowers and snow blowers.
For whom it’s bad
Strict budget shoppers who only need a basic 20V model. Users with very small yards where a 16-inch swath is overkill.
9. EGO Power+ 56V 15-Inch String Trimmer and 530 CFM Blower Combo Kit (ST1502LB) – Best Premium Combo
EGO Power+ 56-Volt 15″ String Trimmer & 530 CFM Blower Combo Kit with 2.5Ah Battery and 210W Standard Charger, ST1502LB
56V 2.5Ah battery
15-inch trimmer
530 CFM blower
IPX4 weather resistant
Pros
- 530 CFM blower power
- 15-inch cutting swath
- Variable speed blower dial
- IPX4 weather-resistant
- 5-year warranty
Cons
- 2.5Ah battery limited to 15-20 minutes
- Combo is heavier at 18.3 lbs
The EGO ST1502LB combo pairs a 15-inch string trimmer with a 530 CFM blower, and it is the most powerful combo in our roundup. I tested it on a half-acre property with mature oak trees, and the blower cleared wet leaves and acorns in a fraction of the time my old corded blower took. The trimmer handled 1-inch thick stems without bogging, which is impressive for a battery tool.
The variable speed blower dial is the key feature. You can dial down to 260 CFM for light sweeping or crank to 530 CFM turbo for heavy debris. The brushless motors on both tools are quiet enough to use in residential neighborhoods without complaints.
The 2.5Ah included battery is the main limitation. Real-world runtime is about 15 to 20 minutes of trimming, which is enough for a small yard but tight for anything larger. If you already own larger EGO batteries from other tools, this combo becomes much more attractive.
IPX4 weather resistance means you can use these tools in light rain without worry, which is rare in this category. The 5-year limited warranty matches the ST1623T and reflects EGO’s confidence in build quality. For homeowners who want premium EGO performance at a lower entry price than the ST1623T, this combo is a smart pick.
For whom it’s good
Homeowners who want both a powerful trimmer and a leaf blower on the EGO 56V platform. Users with mid-size properties. Anyone who values weather resistance for year-round use.
For whom it’s bad
Anyone needing longer runtime out of the box. Users who find 18 pounds too heavy for extended sessions.
10. Greenworks 60V 16-Inch Cordless String Trimmer (ST60L413) – Best Heavy-Duty 60V
Greenworks 60V 16 in Cordless String Trimmer, 4.0 Ah Battery
60V brushless motor
16-inch swath
4.0Ah battery
Attachment capable
Pros
- Powerful 60V brushless motor
- 16-inch wide cutting path
- Attachment-capable shaft
- Load N Go line reloading
- 4-year warranty
- 75+ tool ecosystem
Cons
- Heavier at 18.7 lbs
- Requires shoulder strap for extended use
- Higher cost than smaller models
The Greenworks 60V ST60L413 is the most heavy-duty trimmer in our roundup, and it is built for users who want to replace a gas trimmer without sacrificing cutting power. The 60V brushless motor produces the kind of torque you would expect from a 25cc gas engine, and the 16-inch cutting swath clears overgrown areas fast.
I tested it on a one-acre lot that had been allowed to grow wild for a month, including thick fescue, blackberry vines, and small saplings. The Greenworks chewed through everything without stalling. The attachment-capable shaft is a real bonus, because you can swap in a brush cutter, pole saw, or cultivator head from the Greenworks 60V attachment family.
The Load N Go line reloading system is one of the fastest bump-feed designs I have used. You push a button, drop in a fresh spool, and you are back to work in under 30 seconds. The adjustable shoulder strap is mandatory at this weight, and Greenworks includes it in the box.
The 18.7-pound weight is the trade-off for 60V power. After 45 minutes of heavy trimming, my shoulders and forearms were tired. For users who value power above all else, that weight is worth it. For smaller users or seniors, a 40V model like the EGO ST1623T may be a better fit.
The 4-year warranty is the longest in this category aside from EGO, and the 75+ tool ecosystem means you can build out a complete 60V yard-care system over time. If you want the heaviest-duty option we tested, this is it. For other 60V and 80V options, see our heavy-duty cordless trimmer guide.
For whom it’s good
Homeowners with large properties, heavy weeds, or attachment-capable needs. Users transitioning from gas to battery without compromising on power. Anyone building out a 60V tool ecosystem.
For whom it’s bad
Users with small yards where 60V power is overkill. Seniors or anyone who finds 18 pounds too heavy. Budget shoppers who want a basic trimmer only.
What to Look for in a Battery String Trimmer?
Buying the best battery string trimmer comes down to matching voltage, weight, and feed mechanism to your yard. Here is the framework our team uses when helping readers decide between the ten models above.
Voltage: 20V vs 40V vs 60V vs 80V
Voltage is the single biggest factor in cutting power and runtime. A 20V trimmer is enough for a quarter-acre lawn with maintained grass. Step up to 40V or 56V for half-acre lots with thicker cover. Reserve 60V to 80V for heavy weeds, large properties, or commercial use.
Think of voltage as gas engine displacement. A 20V trimmer is roughly equivalent to a small 2-cycle gas engine for homeowner use. A 56V trimmer like the EGO ST1623T matches a mid-size gas unit. A 60V or 80V tool like the Greenworks ST60L413 rivals a 25cc pro gas trimmer. If your yard never sees anything tougher than maintained lawn grass, you do not need 60V.
Battery capacity matters as much as voltage. A 2.0Ah battery at 56V gives roughly 80 Wh of energy, while a 4.0Ah battery doubles that. For yards over half an acre, look for at least a 4.0Ah battery in the box, or budget for a second battery right away.
Battery platform compatibility
The trimmer you buy today is the gateway to a tool ecosystem. Every brand sells batteries that work across their mowers, blowers, chainsaws, and snow blowers. If you already own a BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX drill, sticking with BLACK+DECKER saves you from owning five different battery chargers.
Platform lock-in is the hidden cost of buying cheap. A low-cost trimmer from an obscure brand might look like a deal, but if you later want a matching blower or mower, you will pay full price for batteries. Sticking with major platforms (EGO 56V, Greenworks 40V/60V, BLACK+DECKER 20V/40V, WORX PowerShare, Ryobi 40V, DeWalt 20V/60V FlexVolt) protects you from that trap.
Cutting swath and line diameter
Cutting swath is the width of cut, ranging from 10 to 16 inches in this roundup. A 12-inch swath is plenty for a small yard and gives you better maneuverability around flower beds. A 16-inch swath covers more ground per pass but is harder to control in tight spaces.
Line diameter affects cutting power and durability. Most homeowner trimmers use 0.065-inch line, which is fine for grass but breaks easily on weeds. Pro-grade models use 0.080 or 0.095-inch line, which lasts longer and cuts thicker cover. If you have rocky soil or chain-link fence in your yard, heavier line saves you from constant breaks.
Feed mechanism: bump vs auto vs rapid load
Bump feed is the classic design: you tap the head on the ground to release more line. It is reliable and cheap, but it interrupts your work. Automatic Feed Spool (AFS) systems like the BLACK+DECKER LST300 use a sensor to feed line as needed, with no bumping required.
Rapid load heads let you replace an empty spool in seconds, while premium systems like EGO’s POWERLOAD wind fresh line onto the existing spool with the push of a button. LINE IQ, also from EGO, takes automation a step further by sensing line wear and feeding automatically. If you have ever fought with a finicky bump head, these premium systems are worth the upgrade.
Shaft design and ergonomics
Curved shaft trimmers are lighter and easier to maneuver, ideal for small yards and edging. Straight shaft trimmers reach farther under bushes and decks, and they typically pair with attachment-capable systems. Telescopic shafts like the one on the EGO ST1623T adjust to your height, which reduces back strain during long sessions.
Weight distribution matters more than total weight. A well-balanced 12-pound trimmer can feel lighter than a poorly balanced 8-pound one. Look for models with shoulder straps included, especially for 40V and above. Vibration control is another underappreciated feature; rubber overmolds on handles and motor mounts reduce fatigue during extended use.
Pro vs homeowner segmentation
Pro-grade trimmers from Stihl, Husqvarna, and ECHO are built for daily use and cost more, but they last longer and have better dealer support. Homeowner trimmers from EGO, Greenworks, BLACK+DECKER, and WORX offer better value for occasional use, with less expensive batteries and broader retail availability.
If you mow professionally or maintain more than an acre weekly, invest in a pro-grade model and a backup battery. If you trim once a week around the house, a homeowner-grade trimmer with a strong warranty (EGO 5-year, Greenworks 4-year) will serve you well for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best string trimmers according to consumer reports?
Consumer Reports consistently rates EGO, Husqvarna, and Greenworks among the top battery string trimmers. The EGO Power+ ST1623T earned our top spot with its LINE IQ auto-feed, POWERLOAD technology, and 60-minute runtime. For pro-grade work, the Husqvarna 525iLST and ECHO DSRM-2600 lead their class. For homeowners on a budget, the BLACK+DECKER LST522 offers the best balance of price and features.
Which battery-powered strimmer is best?
The best battery-powered strimmer overall is the EGO Power+ ST1623T, which combines a 56V brushless motor, 16-inch cutting swath, 60-minute runtime, and patented LINE IQ and POWERLOAD technologies. It also carries a 5-year tool warranty and uses the same battery as other EGO 56V tools, making it the most expandable platform on the market.
Which is better for a cordless trimmer, 20V or 40V?
It depends on your yard size and grass type. A 20V trimmer is enough for maintained lawns under a quarter acre. A 40V or 56V trimmer is better for half-acre lots, thicker grass, or yards with weeds. Voltage translates roughly to gas engine displacement: 20V equals a small homeowner gas unit, 40V to 56V equals a mid-size unit, and 60V to 80V rivals a 25cc pro engine. For most homeowners, 40V to 56V is the sweet spot.
What is the best string trimmer for the money?
The BLACK+DECKER LST522 is the best string trimmer for the money, combining a 20V 2.5Ah battery, dual-speed control, 12-inch cutting swath, PowerDrive transmission, and 2-year warranty. It outperforms more expensive 20V models on runtime and gives you the option to expand into the wider BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX tool ecosystem without breaking the bank.
What is the best battery operated string trimmer on the market?
The EGO Power+ ST1623T is the best battery-operated string trimmer on the market in 2026, with its 56V ARC Lithium battery, 16-inch cutting swath, LINE IQ automatic line feed, POWERLOAD line replacement, and telescopic carbon fiber shaft. It is backed by a 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty, the longest in the consumer battery trimmer category.
What is the best professional battery-powered string trimmer?
For professional use, the ECHO DSRM-2600 and Husqvarna 525iLST are widely considered the best professional battery-powered string trimmers. Both deliver gas-comparable power with 40+ minute runtime using backpack batteries. For prosumers who want professional performance with homeowner pricing, the Greenworks 60V ST60L413 offers comparable torque with a wider 16-inch cutting swath and attachment capability.
Which trimmer has the best battery life?
The EGO Power+ ST1623T delivers the best battery life among consumer trimmers, with up to 60 minutes of runtime per 4.0Ah charge in real-world trimming conditions. For commercial use, the Husqvarna 525iLST paired with a 9Ah backpack battery delivers over 40 minutes of full-power cutting. Battery life depends heavily on grass thickness, line diameter, and whether you use variable speed settings.
Final Verdict: The Best Battery String Trimmer to Buy in 2026
After testing ten models across every price band and use case, the EGO Power+ ST1623T stands out as the best battery string trimmer for most homeowners in 2026. Its LINE IQ auto-feed and POWERLOAD technology solve the two biggest frustrations with cordless trimmers, and its 60-minute runtime is unmatched at the consumer level.
For shoppers on a budget, the WORX WG163 delivers real trimming and edging performance at a fraction of the cost, and it shares the WORX PowerShare battery platform with dozens of other tools. For mid-range buyers, the BLACK+DECKER LST522 is the sweet spot, with dual-speed control and 66% more runtime than entry-level 20V models.
If you have heavy weeds, a large property, or attachment needs, the Greenworks 60V ST60L413 delivers pro-grade torque and the widest cutting swath in our roundup. No matter which model you choose, you will be joining the millions of homeowners who have discovered that battery trimmers are finally as good as gas, without the noise, fumes, or maintenance.
Still comparing options? Check out our other guides for more cordless tool recommendations: 10 Best Hedge Trimmers Tested and 12 Best Cordless String Trimmers for Heavy-Duty Use.