12 Best String Trimmers (June 2026) Cordless, Gas & Electric Reviews

After spending three months testing string trimmers across different properties, I’ve learned that the right tool can transform lawn maintenance from a chore into a quick weekend task. Our team put 15 models through real-world testing on everything from manicured suburban lawns to overgrown fence lines and thick brush.

Whether you call them weed eaters, weed wackers, or string trimmers, these tools are essential for that finished look around fence posts, flower beds, and walkway edges. We’ve compared cordless battery-powered models, reliable corded electric options, and powerful gas trimmers to find the best string trimmers for every budget and yard size.

In this guide, I’ll share what actually matters when choosing a trimmer. Battery voltage isn’t everything. Runtime depends on how you use it. And sometimes the most expensive option isn’t the best fit for your specific needs.

Top 3 Picks for Best String Trimmers

These three models stood out during our months of testing. The EGO ST1623T earned our top spot with its innovative LINE IQ technology that automatically senses and feeds line. The DeWalt impressed professional landscapers on our team with its attachment compatibility and raw power. And the Greenworks 60V delivers exceptional runtime at a price point that undercuts most competitors.

Each excels in different scenarios, which is why we tested them across multiple property types. Your perfect match depends on yard size, vegetation density, and whether you already own batteries from a particular brand ecosystem.

Best String Trimmers in 2026

Our comparison table below shows all 12 string trimmers we tested side by side. We focused on the metrics that actually matter: cutting performance, battery runtime (where applicable), weight balance, and ease of line replacement.

1. EGO POWER+ ST1623T – Best Overall String Trimmer

When I first picked up the EGO ST1623T, I was skeptical about the LINE IQ technology. Auto-feed systems have disappointed me before. But after three months of use on everything from regular grass to thick weeds around an old fence line, I’m convinced this is the future of string trimmers.

The technology actually works. Sensors monitor line length and automatically feed more when needed. I never once had to bump the head or manually extend the line. During a full day of clearing an overgrown property, the line stayed at optimal length without any intervention from me.

The POWERLOAD feature is equally impressive. Press a button and the head winds new line in seconds. I timed it: 12 seconds to completely reload with fresh 0.095-inch line. Compare that to the usual process of disassembling the head, fighting with tangled line, and hoping you wound it correctly.

The telescopic carbon fiber shaft is another standout feature. At 6’2″, I appreciated being able to extend the shaft for comfortable operation without hunching. My 5’4″ neighbor borrowed it and shortened the shaft with a simple twist lock. The carbon fiber keeps weight reasonable despite the powerful 56V battery.

Who Should Buy the EGO ST1623T

This trimmer is ideal for homeowners with quarter-acre to full-acre properties who want professional-grade performance without the maintenance of gas. The 60-minute runtime was accurate in our testing, enough to clear fence lines and edge driveways on a half-acre lot with battery to spare.

If you value convenience and are willing to pay for the best cordless experience available, the ST1623T delivers. The 5-year tool warranty and lifetime shaft warranty show EGO’s confidence in this product’s longevity.

Who Should Skip It

Budget-conscious buyers with small yards should look at the EGO ST1502SA or BLACK+DECKER options. At 7.5 pounds with battery, users with limited upper body strength might find lighter alternatives more comfortable for extended use.

2. DeWalt 60V String Trimmer – Best for Professionals

Landscapers on our testing team consistently ranked the DeWalt 60V as their top choice for professional use. The attachment capability sets it apart from every other trimmer we tested. Swap the trimmer head for a blower, hedge trimmer, or cultivator using the same powerhead.

Power is the other major selling point. At 8000 RPM with a brushless motor, this trimmer slices through thick brush that would stall lesser cordless models. We tested it on 1-inch diameter saplings and dense blackberry thickets. It didn’t bog down once.

The adjustable swath is genuinely useful. For regular trimming around flower beds, the 17-inch width clears wide paths efficiently. When working near delicate plants or tight spaces, reduce to 15 inches for more precise control. The quick-load spool system works well once you learn the technique.

Battery life is the main limitation. Expect 30-35 minutes of continuous heavy use. For professionals, this means investing in multiple batteries or planning work in charging cycles. The 60V platform is compatible across DeWalt’s outdoor power equipment line, so existing battery investments transfer.

Who Should Buy the DeWalt 60V

This is the right choice if you’re a professional landscaper or serious homeowner who wants one battery platform for multiple outdoor tools. The attachment system extends value significantly beyond just trimming.

If you already own DeWalt 60V batteries from other tools, buying the bare tool version makes this significantly more affordable. The power and durability justify the investment for anyone maintaining large properties or dealing with overgrowth regularly.

Who Should Skip It

Casual users with small, well-maintained yards don’t need this much power or versatility. The price premium over simpler cordless options is substantial. If you won’t use the attachment capability, the EGO or Greenworks options offer better value.

3. Greenworks 60V String Trimmer – Best Value

The Greenworks 60V surprised our testing team by delivering near-professional performance at a mid-range price. With over 11,000 reviews averaging 4.3 stars, this trimmer has clearly earned its popularity.

The 65-minute runtime claim seemed optimistic, but we consistently achieved 60+ minutes of actual trimming time. That’s enough to clear fence lines on a 2-acre property or maintain a suburban lot multiple times on a single charge. The 2.5Ah battery balances capacity with reasonable weight.

The Spin-to-Load head design deserves credit. Press a button, insert line, and twist. Line loads in about 10 seconds without disassembling anything. During our testing period, we reloaded line dozens of times across different models. This was among the easiest systems.

What impressed me most was how quiet this trimmer runs. At 68dB, it’s roughly half as loud as equivalent gas trimmers. I used it at 7 AM on a Saturday without worrying about angry neighbors. The rotating handle genuinely reduces wrist fatigue during extended use.

Who Should Buy the Greenworks 60V

This is the sweet spot for most homeowners. The runtime handles large properties, the power cuts through moderate overgrowth, and the price sits comfortably below premium competitors. If you’re building a battery tool collection, Greenworks’ 75+ compatible tools offer excellent expansion options.

Anyone transitioning from gas to battery power should consider this model. It delivers comparable cutting performance with none of the maintenance, fuel mixing, or starting issues.

Who Should Skip It

Users with very small yards might find the battery overkill. The 11.2-pound total weight could tire smaller users during extended sessions. Those already invested in DeWalt, EGO, or Milwaukee battery ecosystems should stay within their existing platforms.

4. EGO ST1502SA – Best Runner-Up

The EGO ST1502SA is essentially the predecessor to our top pick. It lacks the LINE IQ and POWERLOAD features but delivers the same core 56V power and build quality at a lower price point. During testing, this was our go-to recommendation for friends who wanted EGO performance without premium pricing.

The Rapid Reload head works well, though not as effortlessly as POWERLOAD. You still need to thread line through eyelets, but the winding mechanism is tool-free and quick. Most users can reload in under a minute with practice.

Runtime with the included 2.5Ah battery is 45-50 minutes in real-world use. That’s sufficient for most suburban properties. The split shaft design allows the trimmer to break down for compact storage in garages with limited space.

Cutting performance matches the ST1623T. The same 0.095-inch professional line and brushless motor power through thick grass and weeds. The 15-inch swath is slightly smaller than the top pick but still efficient for residential use.

Who Should Buy the EGO ST1502SA

This model suits practical buyers who want EGO’s proven reliability and power but don’t need the latest technology. It’s perfect for homeowners who are comfortable bump-feeding line occasionally and don’t mind slightly longer reload times.

The lower price point makes this accessible to more buyers while still delivering professional-grade performance.

Who Should Skip It

If the price difference between this and the ST1623T is less than $50, the newer model’s LINE IQ and POWERLOAD features are worth the upgrade. Users with very large properties might prefer the 4.0Ah battery included with the top pick.

5. DeWalt 20V MAX XR String Trimmer – Best Folding Design

City dwellers and apartment renters with limited storage space will appreciate the DeWalt 20V MAX XR’s folding hinge. The shaft collapses to roughly half its length, fitting in small closets or car trunks easily.

Don’t let the 20V rating fool you. This trimmer punches above its weight class, cutting through thick brush that stalled other 20V models we tested. The brushless motor and quality construction explain the higher-than-expected performance.

The tool-only configuration assumes you already own DeWalt 20V batteries. If you do, this is a cost-effective way to add trimmer capability. If not, factor battery cost into your decision. The 20V platform is massive, with hundreds of compatible tools from drills to leaf blowers.

During testing, the QuickLoad spool worked reliably. The variable speed trigger lets you dial back power for light trimming to extend battery life. Build quality is typical DeWalt: solid, professional-grade, and backed by a good warranty.

Who Should Buy the DeWalt 20V MAX XR

Existing DeWalt 20V battery owners get the best value here. The folding design specifically benefits anyone with storage constraints. It’s also a smart choice for homeowners with small to medium yards who want quality without the 60V price premium.

Who Should Skip It

Buyers without DeWalt batteries should calculate total investment cost. Users needing maximum runtime for large properties will be better served by 60V or 80V alternatives. The 14-inch swath is smaller than some competitors.

6. Greenworks 80V String Trimmer – Most Powerful Cordless

The Greenworks 80V is the most powerful cordless trimmer we tested, delivering genuine gas-equivalent cutting performance. Users switching from gas to battery consistently rated this highest for raw power.

The 80V battery provides serious torque. We cleared thickets and dense overgrowth that would challenge many gas trimmers. The 16-inch cutting swath is generous, making quick work of large areas. Runtime is shorter than the 60V model, around 35-40 minutes, but the 30-minute rapid charger gets you back to work quickly.

The brushless motor runs quietly despite the power output. At 16 pounds, this is among the heavier cordless options. The weight is noticeable during extended use, though the shoulder strap helps distribute the load.

Some users report a slight delay in throttle response. It’s milliseconds, but noticeable if you’re accustomed to instant gas engine response. The safety button required for operation frustrates some users until they adapt to it.

Who Should Buy the Greenworks 80V

This is the choice for maximum cordless power. Rural property owners, those with overgrown areas to reclaim, or anyone who refuses to compromise on cutting performance will appreciate what the 80V delivers.

If you need gas-level power without the maintenance, noise, and emissions, this is your trimmer. The rapid charging partially offsets the shorter runtime.

Who Should Skip It

The weight makes this unsuitable for smaller users or extended sessions. The price premium over the 60V model is significant for modest performance gains. Most suburban homeowners don’t need this much power.

7. BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 – Best Corded Electric

Corded trimmers deserve more respect. The BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 proves that unlimited runtime and consistent power still matter for the right user. At under $60, it’s also the most affordable option in our roundup.

The 6.5 amp motor spins at 8000 RPM, faster than many battery models. The automatic feed spool eliminates bump feeding. When line wears down, the system advances automatically. During testing on a small suburban lot with accessible outlets, I never missed battery power.

The 2-in-1 design converts from trimmer to wheeled edger in seconds. Flip the head, deploy the guide wheel, and edge sidewalks and driveways with professional results. The cord retention system prevents accidental unplugging, a thoughtful touch.

At 6.3 pounds, this is among the lightest trimmers available. Extended use doesn’t tire your arms or back. The weight distribution feels natural, with the motor positioned for good balance.

Who Should Buy the BESTA510

This is ideal for small property owners with nearby power outlets. If your yard is under 5,000 square feet and you don’t want to manage batteries, corded makes sense. It’s also perfect as a backup trimmer or for rental properties.

Budget-conscious buyers get excellent value. The 2-year warranty and proven BLACK+DECKER reliability make this a low-risk purchase.

Who Should Skip It

Anyone with larger properties or limited outlet access should go cordless. Managing extension cords across sprawling yards becomes frustrating quickly. The cord can also damage flower beds if you’re not careful.

8. WORX WG163 – Best Lightweight Cordless

The WORX WG163 is the trimmer I recommend to anyone concerned about weight or fatigue. At 5.5 pounds, it’s significantly lighter than most competitors while still delivering capable cutting performance.

Two batteries ship with the trimmer, effectively doubling your runtime. Each battery provides 25-30 minutes of use, and the included charger refreshes one while you use the other. For small to medium yards, this system works well.

The 90-degree pivoting head is genuinely useful. Tilt it for edging sidewalks, or pivot to trim under bushes and low branches. The push-button line feed advances string instantly without bumping. During testing, I found myself using the pivot feature more than expected.

The Power Share battery system is compatible with over 75 WORX tools. If you’re starting a cordless tool collection, this ecosystem offers good value and variety.

Who Should Buy the WORX WG163

This trimmer suits smaller users, seniors, or anyone who finds heavier tools fatiguing. The lightweight design doesn’t sacrifice capability for typical residential trimming tasks. The included batteries make it a complete package for first-time cordless buyers.

Who Should Skip It

Large property owners will run through both batteries quickly. Users dealing with thick overgrowth or brush should opt for higher voltage models. The 12-inch swath is smaller than many alternatives, increasing trim time for large areas.

9. BLACK+DECKER LST522 – Best Wheeled Edger

The BLACK+DECKER LST522 stands out for its wheeled edging capability. Flip the head, extend the guide wheel, and create clean edges along driveways and sidewalks. The wheel supports the trimmer weight and guides straight lines effortlessly.

During our edging tests, this feature produced cleaner results than freehand edging with standard trimmers. The wheel maintains consistent height and prevents scalping lawn edges. For properties with extensive hardscaping, this is a meaningful advantage.

The 2.5Ah battery provides roughly 45 minutes of runtime, adequate for small to medium properties. Two-speed control lets you prioritize power for thick patches or extend runtime for light trimming. The automatic line advancement works reliably.

Build quality is solid for the price point. At 5.7 pounds, handling remains comfortable during extended sessions. The 20V MAX battery platform is extensive, with dozens of compatible tools available.

Who Should Buy the LST522

This is ideal for homeowners who prioritize edging performance. If you have extensive sidewalks, driveways, or garden borders to maintain, the wheeled edge guide delivers professional results with minimal effort.

Budget-conscious buyers who already own BLACK+DECKER 20V tools get additional value from battery compatibility.

Who Should Skip It

Users without significant edging needs won’t benefit from the wheeled feature. The 12-inch swath is limiting for large properties. Those needing heavy-duty cutting power should look at 56V or 60V alternatives.

10. BLACK+DECKER LST300 – Best for Reduced Vibration

Vibration fatigue is real. After an hour of trimming, your hands and arms feel the effects of continuous vibration. The BLACK+DECKER LST300 addresses this with a reduced vibration design that our testing team confirmed makes a noticeable difference.

The 2.0Ah battery provides about 30-35 minutes of runtime. It’s sufficient for small yards but limits this trimmer to residential use. The automatic feed spool eliminates bump feeding, and the conversion to edger mode is tool-free.

At 5.7 pounds, this is a comfortable trimmer to use. The adjustable handle and height positions accommodate different users. The reduced vibration design particularly benefits users with arthritis or joint concerns.

The battery platform compatibility with other BLACK+DECKER 20V tools adds value. The 2-year warranty provides reasonable protection for a budget-friendly trimmer.

Who Should Buy the LST300

This trimmer serves users who prioritize comfort over raw power. The reduced vibration design genuinely helps during extended use. It’s well-suited to seniors, users with hand or wrist concerns, or anyone trimming for long sessions.

Small property owners get adequate performance without overpaying for power they don’t need.

Who Should Skip It

Large property owners need longer runtime. Users dealing with thick weeds or overgrowth will find the power insufficient. Some reviewers report battery durability issues on older units.

11. Wild Badger Power Gas Trimmer – Best Gas Option

Gas trimmers still have their place. The Wild Badger Power 26cc delivers unlimited runtime, serious power, and versatility through its 3-in-1 design. The included brush cutter blade handles saplings and thick brush that would destroy string line.

The 26cc full-crank engine provides double the lifespan of half-crank designs common in budget gas trimmers. During testing, it started within 5 pulls consistently once broken in. The 17-inch swath is among the largest available, clearing wide paths efficiently.

The 3-in-1 capability extends value significantly. Use it as a string trimmer for regular maintenance, deploy the edger function for sidewalks, or switch to the brush cutter blade for overgrown areas and saplings. The shoulder strap helps manage the 19.1-pound weight.

Maintenance is required: fuel mixing, spark plug replacement, and air filter cleaning. But for users who need maximum power without battery constraints, gas remains the answer.

Who Should Buy the Wild Badger Power

This suits rural property owners, those clearing overgrown land, or anyone needing all-day runtime. The brush cutter blade capability makes it ideal for reclaiming neglected properties or maintaining fence lines in wooded areas.

Users comfortable with small engine maintenance will appreciate the reliability and power. The price point is competitive with premium cordless options but delivers gas-level performance.

Who Should Skip It

Suburban homeowners with small yards don’t need the maintenance and noise of gas. Users who want grab-and-go convenience should choose cordless. The weight and vibration are more fatiguing than electric alternatives.

12. CRAFTSMAN V20 – Best Budget Cordless

The CRAFTSMAN V20 proves you don’t need to spend much to get capable cordless trimming. At under $70 with battery included, it’s the most affordable cordless option in our roundup while still delivering adequate performance for small yards.

The automatic line advancement works well, feeding 0.065-inch line without bumping. The telescoping pole adjusts for different user heights, and the two-speed control lets you balance power and runtime. At 6.3 pounds, it’s comfortable to handle.

The included 2.0Ah battery provides 25-30 minutes of runtime. That’s limiting but sufficient for small properties. The V20 battery platform is compatible with dozens of CRAFTSMAN tools, making expansion affordable.

Build quality is acceptable for the price point. This won’t match the durability of premium trimmers, but it doesn’t need to for occasional residential use. The 3-year warranty exceeds many competitors.

Who Should Buy the CRAFTSMAN V20

This is the starter trimmer for new homeowners, apartment dwellers with small yards, or anyone wanting cordless convenience on a tight budget. The low price point makes it accessible to virtually everyone.

If you already own CRAFTSMAN V20 tools, this extends your battery investment affordably.

Who Should Skip It

Medium to large property owners will frustrate themselves with the short runtime. Users needing serious cutting power should invest more in higher voltage options. The edging function is weak compared to dedicated edgers or wheeled models.

String Trimmer Buying Guide

After testing 15 trimmers across three months, I’ve identified the factors that actually matter when choosing. Here’s what to consider before buying.

Gas vs Electric – Which is Better?

Gas trimmers deliver unlimited runtime and maximum power but require maintenance, fuel mixing, and produce emissions and noise. Electric options, whether corded or cordless, eliminate maintenance and run cleaner and quieter.

For most homeowners, cordless battery trimmers now offer sufficient power and runtime. The technology has improved dramatically in recent years. Gas remains relevant for professionals, rural property owners, and those clearing heavy overgrowth.

Corded electric works for small yards with accessible outlets. You get unlimited runtime and consistent power without battery management. The tradeoff is managing extension cords and limited mobility.

Battery Voltage and Runtime

Higher voltage generally means more power, but runtime depends on amp-hours (Ah) and how you use the trimmer. A 56V 2.5Ah battery might provide similar runtime to a 20V 5.0Ah battery, but the 56V delivers more cutting power.

Consider your property size. Small yards under 5,000 square feet work fine with 20V batteries. Medium properties up to half an acre benefit from 40V-60V systems. Large properties or heavy use scenarios need 60V+ or multiple batteries.

Most manufacturers exaggerate runtime by 20-30%. Our testing found that real-world runtime is typically 25-45 minutes for standard batteries, with premium models reaching 60+ minutes.

Cutting Swath and Line Diameter

Cutting swath (the width of the cutting path) ranges from 12-17 inches. Larger swaths clear more area per pass, reducing trim time. However, wider heads are harder to maneuver in tight spaces. Adjustable swaths offer the best of both worlds.

Line diameter affects cutting capability. Standard 0.065-inch line handles grass and light weeds. Heavy-duty 0.095-inch line cuts through thick brush and saplings. Some trimmers accept multiple line sizes for versatility.

Shaft Type: Straight vs Curved

Straight shafts provide better reach under bushes and extended reach overall. They’re preferred by professionals and tall users. The direct power transmission is slightly more efficient.

Curved shafts are lighter and easier to maneuver, making them popular for residential use. The curved design naturally positions the cutting head for edging tasks. Shorter users often find them more comfortable.

Telescoping shafts adjust to user height, improving ergonomics for shared tools or households with users of different sizes.

Weight and Ergonomics

Weight matters more than most buyers expect. A few pounds difference becomes significant during a 30-minute trimming session. Lighter trimmers (under 7 pounds) reduce fatigue but may sacrifice power or runtime.

Look for adjustable handles that let you position grips for your height and reach. Rotating handles reduce wrist strain during extended use. Shoulder straps help manage weight on heavier models.

Balance is as important as total weight. A well-balanced trimmer feels lighter than its actual weight. Test the balance by holding the trimmer at the operating angle before buying if possible.

Battery System Compatibility

This is often overlooked but critically important. Choosing a battery platform locks you into that ecosystem for future tool purchases. Major platforms include DeWalt 20V/60V, Milwaukee M18, EGO 56V, Greenworks 60V/80V, and various 18V/20V homeowner lines.

Before buying, consider what other outdoor tools you might want. If you’re starting fresh, choose a platform with a wide range of compatible tools. If you already own batteries from drills or other tools, buying within that platform saves money.

Battery costs add up quickly. A trimmer that seems like a bargain might require $200 in batteries to function, while a more expensive option includes everything you need.

Frequently Asked Questions

Conclusion

After three months of hands-on testing across multiple properties, the EGO POWER+ ST1623T stands out as the best string trimmer for 2026. Its LINE IQ technology eliminates the most frustrating aspect of trimmer ownership, while the POWERLOAD system makes line changes effortless. The build quality justifies the premium price.

For budget-conscious buyers, the Greenworks 60V delivers exceptional runtime and power at a mid-range price. The DeWalt 60V serves professionals and serious homeowners who need attachment compatibility. And the BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 remains unbeatable for small yards and tight budgets.

The best string trimmer for your specific needs depends on property size, existing battery investments, and personal preferences around weight and features. Any of our top 12 recommendations will serve you well, but matching the right model to your situation ensures years of satisfaction.

Invest in quality, and lawn maintenance becomes less of a chore. The right tool makes all the difference between dreading yard work and knocking it out efficiently so you can enjoy your weekend.