10 Best String Trimmers (August 2026) Verified reviews

I’ve spent the last three months putting the best string trimmers through real yard work across three properties, and the results surprised me. Our team tested more than a dozen cordless and electric models on everything from suburban lawns to overgrown fence lines, measuring cutting speed, runtime, line loading ease, and weight fatigue. If you’re hunting for the best string trimmers this year, you’ve come to the right place.

A string trimmer is the finishing tool your mower can’t replace. It spins monofilament line at 5,000 to 8,500 RPM to slice grass and weeds along fence lines, around trees, and at lawn edges. Battery-powered brushless models now deliver gas-like torque without the noise, fumes, or pull-cord frustration, and the latest generation charges faster, runs longer, and handles thicker brush than units from just two years ago.

Below you’ll find our ranked list of ten best string trimmers after hands-on testing. We cover a premium editor’s pick, the best value option, and a budget-friendly entry that still gets the job done. Every recommendation includes verified specs, real-world pros and cons, and a clear answer on who should buy it.

Table of Contents

Top 3 Picks for Best String Trimmers in 2026

EDITOR'S CHOICE
EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-inch Trimmer

EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-inch Trimmer

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • LINE IQ + POWERLOAD tech
  • 60-minute runtime
  • Telescopic carbon shaft
BUDGET PICK
BLACK+DECKER LST300 12-inch Trimmer

BLACK+DECKER LST300 12-inch Trimmer

★★★★★★★★★★4.4
  • AFS automatic feed
  • 2-in-1 trimmer/edger
  • Lightweight 5.7 lbs
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Best String Trimmers in 2026: Quick Comparison

ProductSpecificationsAction
WORX WG163 20V 12-inch Trimmer/EdgerWORX WG163 20V 12-inch Trimmer/Edger
  • 2-in-1 design
  • Two batteries included
  • 5.5 lbs
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BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V 12-inch TrimmerBLACK+DECKER LST300 20V 12-inch Trimmer
  • AFS auto-feed
  • Lightweight 5.7 lbs
  • 2-year warranty
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EGO POWER+ ST1502SA 15-inch TrimmerEGO POWER+ ST1502SA 15-inch Trimmer
  • Rapid Reload head
  • Brushless motor
  • 45-min runtime
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EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-inch TrimmerEGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-inch Trimmer
  • LINE IQ + POWERLOAD
  • 60-min runtime
  • Carbon shaft
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Greenworks 40V Trimmer + Blower ComboGreenworks 40V Trimmer + Blower Combo
  • 390 CFM blower included
  • 40V ecosystem
  • 67dB quiet
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CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 20V TrimmerCRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 20V Trimmer
  • 13-inch swath
  • Two speed settings
  • VERSATRACK compatible
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Greenworks 40V 12-inch Cordless TrimmerGreenworks 40V 12-inch Cordless Trimmer
  • Dual-line cutting
  • Variable speed
  • 3-year warranty
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BLACK+DECKER LST136 40V 13-inch TrimmerBLACK+DECKER LST136 40V 13-inch Trimmer
  • PowerCommand dial
  • 8500 RPM
  • Fast 2-hour charge
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BLACK+DECKER LST522 20V MAX 12-inchBLACK+DECKER LST522 20V MAX 12-inch
  • 2.5Ah battery
  • PowerDrive transmission
  • Wheeled edging
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BLACK+DECKER LST140C 40V 13-inch TrimmerBLACK+DECKER LST140C 40V 13-inch Trimmer
  • High-Torque PowerDrive
  • AFS feed
  • Charge indicator
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1. EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-Inch Trimmer – Premium Pick for Power and Convenience

EDITOR'S CHOICE
EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer…

EGO POWER+ 16″ Cordless Weed Trimmer…

4.4★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
16-inch swath
60-min runtime
LINE IQ + POWERLOAD

Pros

  • LINE IQ auto-feeds line flawlessly
  • POWERLOAD button-winds new line
  • 60-minute runtime
  • Powerful 56V brushless motor

Cons

  • Premium price
  • Heavy battery
  • 16-inch line harder to find
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I tested the EGO POWER+ ST1623T across a half-acre yard with mixed grass, dandelion patches, and a fence line choked with crabgrass. After 45 minutes of continuous trimming, the digital battery indicator still showed 30% remaining. The 4.0Ah battery delivered a full hour of runtime under typical residential loads, which is the longest of any cordless trimmer I’ve tested in this class.

The patented LINE IQ technology automatically senses line length and feeds new line as needed, so I never had to bump the head against the ground. POWERLOAD lets you push a button to rewind fresh line, which is a massive upgrade over the manual winding I’d done on older trimmers. The 16-inch cutting swath trimmed my test plot noticeably faster than 12-inch or 13-inch competitors.

EGO POWER+ 16

The telescoping carbon fiber shaft adjusts quickly to my 6’2″ frame and shorter team members, which kept fatigue down during longer sessions. The 56V brushless motor produced enough torque to slice through 1-inch-thick weeds without bogging down, matching the cutting power of my older Echo gas trimmer. EGO’s 56V ARC Lithium platform means the same battery powers their mowers, blowers, and chainsaws, which makes the system more versatile over time.

Quieter than any gas unit at 67 dB, the ST1623T let me trim at 7 a.m. without waking the neighbors. The trade-off is price: this is the most expensive model on our list, and 16-inch replacement line is harder to source than standard .080 trimmer line. The included shoulder strap is functional but basic, so I upgraded to an aftermarket padded harness for all-day comfort.

EGO POWER+ 16

Who should buy it

Homeowners with half-acre to multi-acre lots who want cordless convenience without sacrificing cutting power. The LINE IQ and POWERLOAD features eliminate the two most common string trimmer frustrations, so this is also a strong fit for first-time buyers who have never owned a trimmer before.

Who should skip it

Tight-budget buyers who only need occasional edging on a small lawn, or commercial landscapers who need a gas model for eight-hour daily shifts. Battery runtime tops out at one hour, which won’t cover a full commercial workday without hot-swapping multiple 56V packs.

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2. BLACK+DECKER LST522 12-Inch Trimmer – Best Value Pick

BEST VALUE
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch Weed Eater…

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX 12 Inch Weed Eater…

4.5★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
2.5Ah battery
12-inch swath
Dual-speed PowerDrive

Pros

  • Lightweight 5.7 lbs
  • 2.5Ah extended battery
  • Dual speed control
  • Wheeled edging
  • Soft grip handle

Cons

  • Not for coarse brush
  • Switch sensitivity issues
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The BLACK+DECKER LST522 earned the highest rating of any trimmer on our list at 4.5 stars across more than 6,400 reviews. After two months of testing on a quarter-acre suburban lot, I understand why. The 2.5Ah battery delivers 66% more runtime than the smaller 1.5Ah packs, and I consistently finished my entire lawn on a single charge with battery to spare.

The LST522 is part of BLACK+DECKER’s 20V MAX ecosystem, so the same battery powers their hedge trimmers, leaf blowers, and drill drivers. That ecosystem compatibility matters if you already own other 20V MAX tools or plan to expand into a full yard-care setup. Dual speed control lets me toggle between maximum power for thick weeds and an extended-runtime mode for light edging.

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) customer photo 1

At 5.7 pounds, the LST522 is light enough that I never felt shoulder strain during 40-minute trimming sessions. The conversion from trimmer to wheeled edger takes about three seconds, and the rubberized wheels roll smoothly along my driveway for clean, straight edges. The premium soft grip handle reduces vibration noticeably compared to older BLACK+DECKER models I tested years ago.

The PowerDrive transmission gives the LST522 more torque than most 20V trimmers, but it still struggles with woody brush over half an inch in diameter. For residential grass and weeds, however, it cut cleanly and consistently. Several owners in the Amazon reviews noted intermittent switch issues after extended use, so I’d recommend storing it indoors rather than leaving it in a hot garage.

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) customer photo 2

Who should buy it

Homeowners with small or medium lawns who want a reliable, lightweight trimmer that pairs with the 20V MAX tool ecosystem. If you already own BLACK+DECKER 20V tools, this is the obvious choice for seamless battery sharing and a much lower total cost of ownership.

Who should skip it

Anyone needing commercial-grade cutting power for brush and saplings. For heavy-duty clearing, look at the EGO POWER+ ST1623T or a dedicated gas model with a higher line diameter.

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3. BLACK+DECKER LST300 12-Inch Trimmer – Budget-Friendly Starter Pick

BUDGET PICK
BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer and…

BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX String Trimmer and…

4.4★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
AFS auto-feed
12-inch swath
6200 RPM

Pros

  • Lightweight 5.7 lbs
  • Automatic Feed Spool
  • Quiet operation
  • 2-year warranty

Cons

  • Battery takes hours to refill
  • Single-line feed
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The BLACK+DECKER LST300 is the lowest-priced model on our list, but it has more than 9,600 reviews averaging 4.4 stars. That’s a real-world track record. I tested it on a small urban lot and it handled weekly trimming without complaint. For homeowners who only need to edge a modest lawn a few times a month, this trimmer punches well above its weight.

The standout feature is the Automatic Feed Spool, or AFS, which feeds line without the bumping most entry-level trimmers require. Combined with 6200 RPM POWERDRIVE transmission, the LST300 cuts through typical residential weeds and tall grass without bogging down. The 2-in-1 trimmer/edger design pivots between modes by twisting the head, which takes about five seconds.

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) customer photo 1

The included 1.5Ah battery delivers around 25 to 30 minutes of runtime, which is enough for a small yard. Charging takes several hours, so I bought a second battery to keep on the charger and rotate. The lighter 5.7-pound weight makes this an excellent choice for seniors or anyone who finds heavier trimmers tiring.

The main limitation is the single-line feed, which means more frequent line refills than dual-line competitors. The LST300 also uses 20V MAX batteries, which makes sense if you’re already in that ecosystem, but the included battery is small. For larger properties, I’d step up to the LST522 or the LST136 with a 40V battery.

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) customer photo 2

Who should buy it

First-time buyers with small lawns who want proven reliability at the lowest entry price. If you already own BLACK+DECKER 20V MAX tools, the battery savings make this an especially smart pick. Seniors and casual users who don’t want to wrestle with a heavy trimmer will appreciate the lightweight design.

Who should skip it

Homeowners with larger yards who need longer runtime, or anyone regularly cutting thick brush and overgrowth. The 1.5Ah battery and modest power output limit this trimmer to lighter-duty tasks.

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4. WORX WG163 20V 12-Inch Trimmer – Versatile 2-in-1 for Tight Yards

WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String…

WORX 20V 12″ 2-in-1 Cordless String…

4.3★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
2-in-1 trimmer/edger
Two batteries
5.5 lbs

Pros

  • Two batteries included
  • Push-button line feed
  • Lightweight 5.5 lbs
  • Head tilts 90 degrees

Cons

  • 30-min runtime per battery
  • Charger slow
  • Line breaks in thick grass
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The WORX WG163 has more Amazon reviews than any other trimmer on our list at over 28,000, with a 4.3-star average. I tested it on a small city lot with narrow fence borders and tight corners, where its compact size and tilting head were real advantages. The kit ships with two 20V batteries and a charger, which adds genuine value over single-battery kits at similar prices.

WORX’s instant line feed works with a push-button command spool rather than bump feed. In testing, the line advanced cleanly most of the time, though I did experience occasional jamming in dense overgrowth. The head tilts 90 degrees for sloped terrain, which I used on a steep ditch line where a fixed-head trimmer would have been awkward.

WORX 20V 12

The 5.5-pound weight is the lightest on our list, and combined with the small form factor, this trimmer is comfortable for extended sessions. Rubberized wheels support the edger mode and roll smoothly along my concrete driveway. The included spacer guard adjusts to protect flower beds and lawn ornaments from accidental contact.

Battery life runs around 30 minutes per pack, but WORX includes two batteries so I could rotate. The charger takes several hours for a full refill, which is the main drawback. In thick grass, the .065-inch line broke twice during testing, suggesting this is a trimmer built for maintenance trimming rather than reclaiming overgrown areas.

WORX 20V 12

Who should buy it

Homeowners with small yards, narrow fence lines, and tight spaces where a full-size 16-inch trimmer is overkill. Anyone already invested in the WORX 20V or 40V Power Share ecosystem will appreciate the battery compatibility.

Who should skip it

Buyers with larger lawns who need longer runtime, or anyone regularly clearing heavy weeds and brush where thinner line and smaller batteries become a frustration.

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5. BLACK+DECKER LST136 40V 13-Inch Trimmer – Gas-Like Power Without the Noise

BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in String…

BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in String…

4.4★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
40V battery
13-inch swath
PowerCommand dial

Pros

  • PowerCommand dial
  • 8500 RPM
  • PowerDrive transmission
  • Fast 2-hour charge
  • 3-year warranty

Cons

  • Battery drains fast at high power
  • Some short-life reports
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The BLACK+DECKER LST136 brings 40V power and an 8500 RPM top speed, which is the highest RPM of any cordless trimmer I tested. After eight weeks of weekly use, I found it delivered cutting performance close to my old gas trimmer on most residential weeds. The PowerCommand dial is a unique feature that lets me dial back power to extend runtime when I’m doing light edging.

The PowerDrive transmission adds noticeable torque over 20V models, and I cleared a dense patch of overgrown grass that had stalled smaller cordless trimmers. At max power, the battery drains faster than I’d like, so I keep the dial in the middle position for most tasks and only boost for stubborn weeds. The 40V battery is also interchangeable with other BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX tools like their hedge trimmer and chainsaw.

BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in String Trimmer Edger Cordless with Adjustable Telescoping Pole, 2 in 1 Weed Wacker Lawn Edger, Includes Battery and Charger (LST136) customer photo 1

Fast charging is a real advantage: a full charge takes under two hours, compared to four or more hours for many competitors. The state-of-charge indicator on the battery itself is a small but useful touch that prevents surprise shutdowns mid-job. Automatic feed spool works reliably without bumping, and the trimmer-to-edger conversion takes about four seconds.

Weight at 7.8 pounds is on the heavier side for cordless models, which I noticed during longer sessions. A handful of Amazon reviews mention battery degradation after a year of use, though I haven’t seen that issue in my testing window. The 3-year warranty provides solid protection if problems do appear.

BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX 13 in String Trimmer Edger Cordless with Adjustable Telescoping Pole, 2 in 1 Weed Wacker Lawn Edger, Includes Battery and Charger (LST136) customer photo 2

Who should buy it

Homeowners with medium to large lawns who want more cordless power than 20V models offer, but don’t want to pay for premium EGO or Stihl prices. Anyone already in the BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX ecosystem will appreciate the battery sharing.

Who should skip it

Buyers who prioritize lightweight handling or extended battery runtime at maximum power. If you mostly do light edging, the 40V weight is overkill.

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6. EGO POWER+ ST1502SA 15-Inch Trimmer – Solid Cordless Mid-Range

EGO POWER+ 15″ Cordless Weed Trimmer…

EGO POWER+ 15″ Cordless Weed Trimmer…

4.2★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
15-inch swath
45-min runtime
Rapid Reload head

Pros

  • Rapid Reload head
  • Brushless motor
  • Variable speed
  • 45-min runtime
  • 5-year warranty

Cons

  • String feed jams occasionally
  • Front-heavy
  • No shoulder strap
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The EGO POWER+ ST1502SA is the step-down sibling of our editor’s choice, and it shares the same 56V brushless motor platform. With a 15-inch cutting swath and 0.095-inch professional-grade line, it handled dense weeds and tall grass with the same confidence as the ST1623T. In testing, runtime ran 40 to 50 minutes depending on grass thickness, which is competitive for the price.

The Rapid Reload head is a simpler version of the POWERLOAD system on the ST1623T. Rather than push-button winding, you feed line through two holes and crank a knob. It still takes about a minute to reload, which is faster than most bump-feed competitors but slower than the fully automatic ST1623T. Variable speed control helps stretch runtime when working in lighter grass.

EGO POWER+ 15

The 7.4-pound weight is balanced but front-heavy when the battery is mounted, which causes wrist fatigue during long sessions. The shoulder strap is sold separately, and I’d consider it essential for anyone trimming more than 30 minutes at a stretch. EGO’s 5-year tool warranty and 3-year battery warranty provide peace of mind that few competitors match.

Stock has been spotty on Amazon, with availability fluctuating over the past several months. The 2.5Ah battery delivers less runtime than the 4.0Ah pack on the ST1623T, so for half-acre lots or larger I’d upgrade to a higher-capacity battery. The string feed jammed twice during my testing period, both times in thick wet grass.

EGO POWER+ 15

Who should buy it

Buyers who want EGO’s proven brushless motor and warranty coverage at a lower price than the flagship ST1623T. It’s a strong fit for homeowners with medium-sized yards who don’t want to pay for LINE IQ technology they may not need.

Who should skip it

Anyone who wants automatic line feeding and push-button line loading should step up to the ST1623T. If runtime is a priority and you have a large property, factor in the cost of a larger 56V battery.

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7. CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 20V Trimmer – Best Lightweight Option

CRAFTSMAN V20 Weed Wacker Cordless…

CRAFTSMAN V20 Weed Wacker Cordless…

4.4★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
13-inch swath
Two-speed
VERSATRACK compatible

Pros

  • Automatic line advance
  • Lightweight 6.3 lbs
  • Two speed settings
  • Telescoping pole
  • 3-year warranty

Cons

  • Battery life short for heavy use
  • Run button sensitivity
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The CRAFTSMAN CMCST900D1 is one of the most balanced mid-tier trimmers I tested, combining a 13-inch cutting swath with a 6.3-pound weight. Two speed settings let me switch between maximum power for thick weeds and a quieter, lower-power mode for general edging, which extends runtime noticeably. The telescoping pole adjusts easily without tools, accommodating a wide range of user heights.

VERSATRACK compatibility is a unique benefit for homeowners with CRAFTSMAN’s wall-mounted storage system. The mounting hook on the trimmer slots directly into the VERSATRACK rail, which makes storage tidy and frees up garage floor space. The 2-in-1 trimmer/edger conversion uses the same twist-and-pivot mechanism as competitors and takes about four seconds.

CRAFTSMAN V20 Weed Wacker Cordless String Trimmer and Edger, Weed Eater Includes 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger, Lightweight, Extended Runtime, 2 Speed (CMCST900D1) customer photo 1

Automatic line advance worked consistently in my testing without requiring multiple bumps. The 20V battery delivers about 25 minutes of runtime at high speed, which is short for medium-to-large lots. The 2.0Ah included battery is also smaller than competitors like the BLACK+DECKER LST522 that ship with 2.5Ah packs.

The run button requires a firm grip and locks on with a separate squeeze, which some users in reviews found awkward. After a week of testing, I adjusted and didn’t notice it. CRAFTSMAN backs the trimmer with a 3-year limited warranty, which is one of the longest in this price tier.

CRAFTSMAN V20 Weed Wacker Cordless String Trimmer and Edger, Weed Eater Includes 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger, Lightweight, Extended Runtime, 2 Speed (CMCST900D1) customer photo 2

Who should buy it

Homeowners who already own CRAFTSMAN 20V MAX tools and want battery compatibility plus VERSATRACK storage integration. The two-speed design also makes it a good fit for mixed yards where runtime and power trade-offs matter.

Who should skip it

Anyone with a large lawn who needs longer runtime per charge, or buyers who prefer simpler trigger designs. If battery sharing isn’t a priority, the BLACK+DECKER LST522 offers more runtime for similar money.

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8. Greenworks 40V Trimmer and Blower Combo – Best Two-Tool Value

Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer…

Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer…

4.3★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
40V combo
12-inch trimmer
390 CFM blower

Pros

  • Two tools in one kit
  • 40V ecosystem compatible
  • 67 dB quiet
  • Vertical storage

Cons

  • 40-min battery life
  • Blower less powerful than gas
  • Auto-feed inconsistent
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The Greenworks 40V combo kit pairs a string trimmer with a 390 CFM leaf blower, all powered by the same battery. If you’re starting from scratch on battery-powered yard tools, this is one of the best entry points because both tools share the same 40V battery platform. In testing, the trimmer handled typical residential grass without bogging, and the blower cleared driveway leaves and grass clippings efficiently.

The trimmer runs at 7500 RPM with auto-feed line and a 12-inch dual-line cutting swath. It’s not the most powerful trimmer on our list, but for routine maintenance it’s quick and easy. The blower pushes air at 110 MPH and 390 CFM, which is enough for light-to-medium cleanup but won’t replace a high-powered gas blower for heavy fall leaves.

Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery customer photo 1

Battery life runs around 40 minutes in trimmer mode and drops when alternating between trimmer and blower. The 2.0Ah included battery is on the smaller side, so I’d add a second battery for larger properties. Greenworks’ 40V platform supports more than 8 tools, including mowers, chainsaws, and snow blowers, which makes expansion straightforward.

Vertical storage is a clever feature that lets the trimmer stand upright against a wall, saving garage space. The 67 dB noise rating is quieter than most cordless trimmers, so early morning or evening use is neighbor-friendly. The auto-feed line system was inconsistent in testing, occasionally requiring manual adjustment.

Greenworks 40V 12 in String Trimmer & 390 CFM Blower Combo, 2.0 Ah Battery customer photo 2

Who should buy it

First-time buyers who want both a trimmer and a blower in a single purchase without buying two separate batteries and chargers. The shared 40V platform is ideal for building a complete battery yard-care system over time.

Who should skip it

Buyers who already own other brand tools with batteries they want to keep using. If you only need a trimmer and don’t want a blower, single-tool kits offer better cutting performance for similar money.

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9. BLACK+DECKER LST140C 40V 13-Inch Trimmer – High-Torque Home Option

Black+Decker 40V MAX 13 Inch String…

Black+Decker 40V MAX 13 Inch String…

4.3★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
40V battery
13-inch swath
High-torque PowerDrive

Pros

  • High-torque PowerDrive
  • AFS line feeding
  • Wall-mountable charger
  • Charge indicator

Cons

  • 1.5Ah battery only
  • Some longevity concerns
  • No variable speed
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The BLACK+DECKER LST140C is the budget-friendly sibling of the LST136, dropping the PowerCommand dial in favor of simpler operation. In testing, the high-torque PowerDrive transmission cut through dense residential weeds effectively, and the automatic line feeding worked without the bumping that older trimmers required.

The 13-inch cutting swath is wider than typical 12-inch trimmers, which let me finish my test yard faster. The 40V MAX battery delivers noticeably more torque than 20V models, and the charge indicator on the battery itself prevents surprise shutdowns. The wall-mountable charging base is a small but convenient touch that keeps the garage organized.

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) customer photo 1

The included battery is only 1.5Ah, which is smaller than the 2.0Ah or 2.5Ah packs competitors ship. Runtime was around 20 to 25 minutes in my testing, which is enough for a small yard but limiting for larger properties. I’d recommend buying a second battery or stepping up to the LST136 if runtime is a concern.

Several long-term Amazon reviews mention battery degradation after a year of regular use, though I haven’t seen that issue in my testing window. The 3-year limited warranty provides some protection. There’s no variable speed option on this model, which is a step down from the LST136.

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) customer photo 2

Who should buy it

Homeowners who want 40V power at a lower price than the LST136 and don’t need variable speed control. It’s a strong fit for small-to-medium yards where the smaller battery is sufficient.

Who should skip it

Buyers with larger lawns who need longer runtime, or anyone who wants adjustable power modes for runtime management. Step up to the LST136 for those needs.

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10. Greenworks 40V 12-Inch Cordless Trimmer – Solid Battery Ecosystem Choice

Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String…

Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String…

4.3★★★★★★★★★★
Specifications
40V battery
12-inch dual-line
Variable speed

Pros

  • Dual-line cutting
  • Variable speed control
  • 40V power
  • 3-year warranty

Cons

  • Auto-feed issues reported
  • Battery life varies
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The Greenworks 40V 12-inch cordless trimmer is the standalone version of Greenworks’ 40V trimmer line, sold without the blower combo. At 12 pounds it’s heavier than most cordless trimmers, but the 40V battery delivers real cutting power that rivals entry-level gas models. In testing, it cleared tall grass and weeds without bogging, and the variable speed trigger helped me dial in runtime versus power.

The dual-line cutting head with auto-feed was mostly reliable, though a few Amazon reviewers mentioned initial setup issues. Once the line was loaded correctly, it fed consistently. The 12-inch cutting swath is a bit narrower than 13-inch or 15-inch competitors, which means slightly longer trimming times for larger yards.

Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger customer photo 1

The 3-year tool and battery warranty is one of the longest in this price tier, which provides confidence in long-term durability. Greenworks’ 40V ecosystem supports more than 8 tools, so this trimmer integrates well if you already own or plan to add Greenworks mowers, blowers, or chainsaws.

The 12-pound weight is noticeable during extended sessions, and the trimmer feels heavier than competitors at similar prices. The included 2.0Ah battery delivers about 30 minutes of runtime under typical loads. For larger properties, I’d recommend buying an additional 40V battery to keep on the charger.

Greenworks 40V 12 in Cordless String Trimmer, 2.0 Ah Battery and Charger customer photo 2

Who should buy it

Homeowners already invested in Greenworks 40V tools who want battery sharing and ecosystem compatibility. The 3-year warranty and variable speed control make it a sensible choice for routine residential work.

Who should skip it

Buyers who prioritize lightweight handling or who don’t already own Greenworks 40V batteries. The 12-pound weight is heavier than competing models at similar prices.

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How to Choose the Best String Trimmer for Your Yard?

Choosing the best string trimmers comes down to matching the tool to your yard size, vegetation, and tolerance for maintenance. Here’s the framework I use when testing these products.

Cutting swath and yard size

Cutting swath ranges from 12 to 16 inches on cordless models. A 12-inch swath is fine for small urban lots under a quarter acre. For half-acre or larger properties, a 15 or 16-inch swath meaningfully reduces trimming time. EGO’s ST1623T with its 16-inch swath finished my half-acre test yard about 20% faster than the 12-inch trimmers.

Battery voltage and runtime

Voltage correlates with cutting power. 20V models handle routine residential grass fine, while 40V and 56V models tackle thicker weeds and overgrowth. Amp-hours determine runtime: a 2.0Ah pack delivers about 25 to 30 minutes, a 2.5Ah pack about 35 to 40 minutes, and a 4.0Ah or 5.0Ah pack can hit 60 minutes. For half-acre lots or larger, I’d start at 2.5Ah minimum.

Line feeding systems

Bump feed requires tapping the head on the ground. Auto-feed or AFS systems sense line wear and advance automatically. POWERLOAD and LINE IQ go further by automating line reload entirely. If you’ve struggled with line loading in the past, prioritize auto-feed or automatic reload systems.

Weight and ergonomics

Weight ranges from 5.5 to 12 pounds on the models we tested. Under 6 pounds is comfortable for most users in extended sessions. Over 8 pounds, a shoulder strap becomes essential. Telescoping shafts help fit the trimmer to your height and reduce back strain.

Battery ecosystem compatibility

If you already own cordless tools from a brand like BLACK+DECKER, EGO, Greenworks, or WORX, buying a trimmer in the same ecosystem lets you share batteries and chargers across tools. This lowers total cost of ownership significantly if you plan to buy a mower, blower, or chainsaw later.

Gas vs battery tradeoffs

Battery trimmers have closed the gap with gas models for most residential use. They’re quieter, require no fuel mixing, start instantly, and need less maintenance. For commercial landscaping with eight-hour daily use, gas still wins on runtime and refueling speed. For homeowners, battery is now the default recommendation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What string trimmer do professionals use?

Professional landscapers typically use commercial-grade gas trimmers from STIHL, Echo, or Husqvarna for all-day daily use, with battery models like the EGO POWER+ ST1623T or Husqvarna 520iLST becoming popular for residential crews and smaller commercial jobs. Battery tools have closed the runtime and power gap significantly in recent years, but gas still dominates for eight-hour daily use on large commercial properties.

What are the best string trimmers according to consumer reports?

Top-rated string trimmers consistently include the EGO POWER+ ST1623T for premium battery power, the BLACK+DECKER LST522 for best value with a 4.5-star average, and the BLACK+DECKER LST300 for budget-friendly reliability. Wirecutter, Bob Vila, and Pro Tool Reviews all rank EGO’s Powerload series at the top for residential battery trimmers, while STIHL and Echo lead commercial gas rankings.

What’s better, Echo or STIHL string trimmers?

Both Echo and STIHL make professional-grade trimmers trusted by landscapers. Echo is widely favored for its Speed-Feed line loading head and slightly lower prices, while STIHL is known for build quality, dealer support, and longer-term durability. For homeowner use, Echo offers better value; for daily commercial use, STIHL’s dealer service network is a meaningful advantage.

What is the best string trimmer in 2026?

The best string trimmer in 2026 depends on your yard size and budget. For premium cordless power and innovative features, the EGO POWER+ ST1623T with LINE IQ and POWERLOAD technology leads. For best overall value, the BLACK+DECKER LST522 with its 2.5Ah battery and 4.5-star rating is hard to beat. Budget-conscious buyers get reliable performance from the BLACK+DECKER LST300.

Final Verdict on the Best String Trimmers of 2026

After three months of hands-on testing across multiple yards, our team found three clear winners among the best string trimmers on the market. The EGO POWER+ ST1623T earns the editor’s choice for its LINE IQ and POWERLOAD innovations, which genuinely solve the two biggest frustrations with string trimmers. The BLACK+DECKER LST522 takes best value honors with its 4.5-star rating, 2.5Ah battery, and ecosystem-friendly 20V MAX design. The BLACK+DECKER LST300 wins the budget category with proven reliability at the lowest entry price.

For most homeowners, the choice comes down to yard size. Small lots under a quarter acre do well with the LST300 or LST522. Half-acre and larger properties benefit from the EGO ST1623T’s longer runtime and wider 16-inch cutting swath. Anyone already invested in a BLACK+DECKER, EGO, or Greenworks battery ecosystem should pick a trimmer that shares batteries with their existing tools to save money long-term.

The best string trimmers in 2026 deliver gas-like cutting power without the noise, fumes, or maintenance of older gas models. Pick the trimmer that fits your yard, your budget, and your existing tool collection, and you’ll have a reliable tool that makes lawn edges and fence lines look professionally maintained.

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