A dependable string trimmer makes it easier to clean up fence lines, garden borders, driveway edges, and areas your mower cannot reach. The best model for you depends on yard size, power needs, battery compatibility, and how much you value convenience.
We compared ten popular cordless and electric options across cutting width, power source, runtime, handling, edging features, and included accessories to help you choose with confidence.
Best 10 String Trimmers Picks for 2026
Best Cordless 2-in-1
- Converts to a wheeled edger
- Includes two 20V batteries
- Push-button line feed
Best For: Homeowners needing cordless trimming and edging in one tool
Best Trimmer-and-Blower Combo
Greenworks 40V Trimmer & Blower
- Includes trimmer and blower
- 390 CFM blower output
- Uses the Greenworks 40V platform
Best For: Whole-yard maintenance with one cordless kit
Best Simple 40V Trimmer
Greenworks 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
- 12-inch dual-line cutting path
- Variable-speed trigger
- Battery and charger included
Best For: Everyday grass and light-weed trimming
Quiet Cordless Control
Makita XRU23Z 13-Inch String Trimmer
- Brushless motor reaches up to 6,000 RPM
- Up to 1 hour with an 18V LXT 4.0Ah battery
- Tool-only design with variable-speed control
Best For: Existing Makita 18V LXT users
Premium Line Management
EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-Inch Trimmer
- 16-inch swath with automatic LINE IQ feeding
- POWERLOAD winds line with a button press
- Includes 4.0Ah battery and charger
Best For: Convenience-focused yard maintenance
Lightweight Trimming and Edging
- Lightweight 5.7-pound design
- Converts from trimmer to edger
- Includes battery, charger, spool, and guard
Best For: Small-yard trimming and edging
Editor's Choice
EGO Power+ 15-Inch Powerload Trimmer
- Automatic Powerload line winding
- 15-inch swath with brushless motor
- Up to 45 minutes of runtime
Best For: Homeowners wanting power, adjustability, and EGO 56V compatibility
Best Long-Run Kit
- Up to 63 minutes of runtime
- Trimmer-to-edger conversion
- Includes 4.0Ah battery and charger
Best For: Routine trimming and edging with extended battery runtime
Best Lightweight Option
- Lightweight 7.8-pound design
- PowerCommand power/runtime dial
- Automatic feed and edging conversion
Best For: Smaller lawns and users prioritizing lighter handling
Best Cordless 2-in-1 – WORX WG163 Trimmer & Edger
The WORX WG163 is one of the more versatile string trimmers for homeowners who want cordless convenience plus a dedicated edging setup. It converts from a trimmer to an edger, includes two 20V batteries, and has a tilting head for sloped or difficult-to-reach areas.
Best For: Homeowners who want a lightweight cordless trimmer that can also handle lawn edging.
Pros:
- Converts between string trimmer and wheeled edger in seconds.
- Includes two 20V batteries and a charger.
- Push-button command feed advances line without bumping.
- Adjustable spacer guard helps protect plants and landscape features.
Cons:
- The 12-inch cutting diameter is better suited to routine residential maintenance than large areas.
- Uses a relatively thin 0.065-inch cutting line.
With its 5.5-pound weight, support wheels, and compatible WORX Power Share battery platform, the WG163 is a practical choice for regular trimming and edging around a home.
Best Trimmer-and-Blower Combo – Greenworks 40V Trimmer & Blower
This Greenworks combo pairs a 12-inch string trimmer with a 390 CFM blower, making it useful for maintaining lawn edges and clearing the debris left behind. Its 40V battery platform and included 2.0Ah battery provide a convenient cordless setup for routine yard cleanup.
Best For: Homeowners who want one battery-powered kit for trimming and blowing patios, walkways, and lawn edges.
Pros:
- Combines a 12-inch trimmer and 110 MPH, 390 CFM blower.
- Auto-feed line simplifies line advancement.
- Blower includes cruise control for sustained operation.
- Battery works across the Greenworks 40V tool ecosystem.
Cons:
- The complete combo weighs 16.5 pounds.
- The included battery requires about 60 minutes to charge.
If you need both trimming and cleanup tools, this set offers better all-around utility than a standalone trimmer while keeping operation quieter and simpler than gas-powered equipment.
Best Corded Value – BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 2-in-1 Trimmer
The BLACK+DECKER BESTA510 is a corded electric option for shoppers who want consistent power without charging batteries. Its 14-inch cutting path, automatic feed spool, and rotating wheeled edge guide make it suitable for trimming grass and defining borders around sidewalks and flower beds.
Best For: Homeowners with accessible outdoor outlets who prioritize a wide cutting path and simple corded operation.
Pros:
- 14-inch cutting path covers more ground per pass.
- Rotates between trimmer and wheeled edger modes.
- Automatic feed spool avoids bumping to advance line.
- 6.5-amp motor and POWERDRIVE transmission are designed for tough weeds and overgrowth.
Cons:
- Corded operation limits mobility compared with battery-powered string trimmers.
- Requires access to a suitable outdoor extension cord and outlet.
For smaller properties or users who prefer uninterrupted electric power, the BESTA510 provides a straightforward 2-in-1 design with a wider cut path and a two-year limited warranty.
Best Simple 40V Trimmer – Greenworks 12-Inch Cordless String Trimmer
This Greenworks cordless string trimmer focuses on the essentials: a 12-inch dual-line cutting path, automatic line feed, variable-speed control, and a battery and charger included in the package. It is a practical fit for routine grass and light-weed maintenance around lawns, sidewalks, and landscaping.
Best For: Users seeking a straightforward cordless trimmer with adjustable speed and a included 40V battery system.
Pros:
- 12-inch cutting path with 0.065-inch dual line.
- Auto-feed system advances line without bumping.
- Variable-speed trigger offers control for different tasks.
- Includes a 2.0Ah battery and charger.
Cons:
- It is designed for grass and light weeds rather than specifically heavy brush.
- The listed tool weight is 12 pounds.
With its uncomplicated controls and included battery setup, this Greenworks model is a sensible everyday choice for trimming lawn edges and landscaping without dealing with gas, fuel, or extension cords.
Quiet Cordless Control – Makita XRU23Z 13-Inch String Trimmer
Makita XRU23Z 18V LXT® Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless 13" String Trimmer, Tool Only
Check Price On AmazonThe Makita XRU23Z is a practical choice for shoppers comparing string trimmers for routine yard maintenance. Its brushless motor reaches up to 6,000 RPM, while the high/low power button and variable-speed trigger let you balance cutting performance and runtime.
Best For: Makita 18V LXT users who want a quieter, low-maintenance trimmer and already have compatible batteries.
Pros:
- Brushless motor delivers up to 6,000 RPM.
- Up to 1 hour of runtime with an 18V LXT 4.0Ah battery.
- No gas, oil mixing, emissions, or pull starts.
- High/low power settings and variable-speed trigger improve control.
Cons:
- Battery and charger are sold separately.
- Its 13-inch cutting width is narrower than some competing models.
- At 9.2 pounds, it is not the lightest option listed.
Choose this Makita if you value reduced maintenance, lower noise, and compatibility with the 18V LXT platform. The tool-only format makes the most sense for existing Makita battery owners.
Premium Line Management – EGO POWER+ ST1623T 16-Inch Trimmer
The EGO POWER+ ST1623T stands out among string trimmers with a wide 16-inch cutting swath and automatic line-management features. LINE IQ feeds line without bumping, while POWERLOAD winds replacement line at the push of a button.
Best For: Homeowners who want a wide cutting path, adjustable comfort, and a complete battery-and-charger kit.
Pros:
- 16-inch cutting width covers more area per pass.
- LINE IQ automatically senses and feeds trimmer line.
- POWERLOAD simplifies line replacement.
- Includes a 4.0Ah battery and charger, with up to 60 minutes of runtime.
Cons:
- The included charger takes 55 minutes to charge the battery.
- Its feature-rich design may be more than needed for small trimming jobs.
For buyers prioritizing convenience, coverage, and adjustment, the EGO is a strong all-in-one option. Its telescopic carbon-fiber shaft and digital speed selector also help tailor the tool to the user and task.
Lightweight Trimming and Edging – BLACK+DECKER LST300 20V MAX
The BLACK+DECKER LST300 is a compact option for shoppers seeking versatile string trimmers for smaller lawn-care tasks. It combines a 12-inch cutting swath with a two-in-one design that converts from trimming to edging, and its automatic feed spool advances line without bumping.
Best For: Homeowners who want a lightweight, easy-start trimmer and edger kit with the battery and charger included.
Pros:
- Lightweight 5.7-pound design supports easier handling.
- Converts from trimmer to edger in seconds.
- Automatic Feed Spool advances line without bumping.
- Includes a 2.0Ah battery, charger, spool, and guard.
Cons:
- Its 12-inch cutting width is the narrowest among these options.
- The included 2.0Ah battery provides less stated capacity than the other listed kits.
- It has a 2-year limited warranty, shorter than the EGO tool warranty.
This BLACK+DECKER makes a sensible pick when low weight and edging versatility matter more than maximum cutting width. The included battery and charger also make it ready to use out of the box.
Editor's Choice – EGO Power+ 15-Inch Powerload Trimmer
The EGO Power+ ST1511T is a strong option for shoppers comparing cordless string trimmers for regular yard cleanup. Its 15-inch cutting swath, brushless motor, telescopic aluminum shaft, and included 2.5Ah battery provide a useful combination of cutting capacity, adjustability, and convenience.
Best For: Homeowners who want a powerful, adjustable cordless trimmer with automatic line loading and compatibility with EGO’s 56V battery platform.
Pros:
- Powerload technology automatically winds the line at the push of a button.
- 15-inch cutting swath and professional-grade 0.095-inch line handle broad trimming areas.
- Includes a 2.5Ah battery and charger, with up to 45 minutes of runtime.
- Brushless motor, two speed settings, and a telescopic shaft support comfortable operation.
Cons:
- At 10.3 pounds, it is heavier than some compact cordless trimmers.
- The stated runtime is up to 45 minutes, so larger properties may require additional batteries.
This is a feature-rich choice for buyers who value fast line changes, solid cutting performance, and long-term platform compatibility. The included five-year tool warranty and three-year battery warranty add further ownership reassurance.
Best Long-Run Kit – CRAFTSMAN V20 13-Inch Trimmer
The CRAFTSMAN V20 String Trimmer and Edger Kit is a practical pick among cordless string trimmers for buyers who prioritize runtime and straightforward versatility. It combines a 4.0Ah battery, two speed settings, an adjustable handle, and turn-to-edge functionality in one lightweight kit.
Best For: Homeowners who want extended stated runtime and a single tool for trimming and edging.
Pros:
- Up to 63 minutes of runtime with the included 4.0Ah battery.
- Turn-To-Edge functionality converts the trimmer for edging tasks.
- Two speed settings let users prioritize runtime or power.
- Adjustable handle and 13-inch cutting swath support comfortable, efficient work.
Cons:
- Uses 0.065-inch line, which is thinner than the line supplied with the EGO model.
- The 13-inch swath covers less area per pass than the EGO’s 15-inch design.
With its generous battery capacity and integrated edging mode, this CRAFTSMAN kit suits routine lawn maintenance without requiring a separate edger. It is also a convenient entry point into the V20 system of cordless products.
Best Lightweight Option – BLACK+DECKER 40V MAX Trimmer
The BLACK+DECKER LST136 is a lightweight choice for shoppers comparing cordless string trimmers with edging capability. Its 7.8-pound design includes a telescoping pole, soft-grip handle, automatic line feeding, and a power dial for choosing between stronger cutting and longer runtime.
Best For: Buyers seeking a relatively light trimmer with quick trimmer-to-edger conversion and adjustable power control.
Pros:
- Weighs 7.8 pounds and includes an adjustable telescoping pole and soft-grip handle.
- PowerCommand Dial helps balance maximum power and maximum runtime.
- Automatic Feed Spool supplies line without bumping.
- Includes a 40V 2.0Ah battery, fast charger, and edging components.
Cons:
- The included 2.0Ah battery has less stated capacity than the CRAFTSMAN’s 4.0Ah battery.
- Its 13-inch cutting swath is narrower than the EGO’s 15-inch swath.
- The supplied notes list a two-year warranty, shorter than the EGO tool warranty.
This model is appealing when low weight and control flexibility matter more than maximum cutting width. The automatic feed system and fast trimmer-to-edger conversion make it well suited to smaller or frequently maintained lawns.
How We Picked the Best String Trimmers
We focused on the features that matter most during routine yard maintenance: cutting width, motor power, power source, battery capacity, runtime, weight, shaft adjustability, spool or feed design, and edging capability. We also considered whether each kit includes a battery and charger, since tool-only models can cost more once a compatible battery is added.
The selection includes compact 12-inch models for smaller properties, wider 15- and 16-inch trimmers for faster coverage, and both corded and cordless designs. Brushless motors, adjustable handles, telescoping shafts, and bundled blowers were treated as practical advantages rather than automatic reasons to pay more.
Quick Comparison
| Best For | Recommended Type | What to Look For |
|---|---|---|
| Small yards and light trimming | 12-inch cordless or corded model | Low weight, simple controls, easy spool replacement |
| Medium-size properties | 12- to 15-inch cordless model | Reliable battery system and included charger |
| Large yards and overgrown edges | 15- to 16-inch cordless model | Higher voltage, wider cutting swath, longer runtime |
| Complete cleanup | Trimmer-and-blower combo | Shared battery platform and useful accessory bundle |
Key Buying Factors for String Trimmers
Power and Cutting Width
Voltage is a useful comparison point, but it does not tell the whole story. Motor design, line thickness, and cutting width also affect performance. A narrower head is easier to control around flower beds, while a 15- or 16-inch head can reduce passes across open areas. For thick weeds or dense growth, prioritize a stronger motor and a durable line system.
Battery Runtime and Compatibility
Cordless String Trimmers offer the most freedom, but runtime varies with grass density, line size, and trimming technique. A larger battery generally lasts longer, while a shared platform lets you use batteries with other outdoor tools. Check whether the listing includes a battery and charger; “tool only” models are best for shoppers who already own compatible batteries.
Comfort, Control, and Feeding
Weight, balance, handle position, and shaft adjustability affect fatigue more than specifications alone. Telescoping shafts help accommodate different heights, and adjustable auxiliary handles improve control. Automatic or bump-feed systems can simplify line advancement, while proprietary spools may be convenient but more expensive to replace.
Edging and Safety Features
A rotating head or 2-in-1 design can make it easier to create clean borders along sidewalks and beds. Look for a guard that limits flying debris, a lockout or safety switch, and controls that are easy to operate while wearing gloves. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use eye and hearing protection when appropriate.
Who Should Buy Which String Trimmers?
Choose a compact 12-inch model if you maintain a small lawn, prefer lighter equipment, or mainly trim occasional grass around obstacles. Medium-voltage cordless models are a practical fit for typical suburban yards, especially when you want cordless convenience without the size of a heavier commercial-style tool.
For larger properties, frequent growth, or demanding cleanup, a wider 15- or 16-inch trimmer with a larger battery can save time. A combo kit is worthwhile if you also need a blower and want both tools to share one battery system. Finally, choose a tool-only option when you already own batteries in that brand’s platform; otherwise, a kit with the battery and charger included is usually easier to budget for.